Keighley's special constables hit the road at the weekend.

The volunteer police officers carried out vehicle checks in Worth Way, Keighley, on Saturday.

Passing motorists were randomly pulled in and their vehicles inspected for roadworthiness.

Tyres, exhaust emissions, lights and seat belts were among the items on the checklist.

Forty-six vehicles were fully checked. As a result, 15 fixed penalty tickets - and two prohibition orders - were issued for various offences, and one person was arrested in connection with a motoring-related matter.

The operation - involving around 10 officers, working with members of the Vehicle Inspectorate - was the first in a series of activities this month which is set to heighten the profile of the specials.

And the events will also mark a national campaign next weekend designed to raise awareness of the special constabulary, which provides a vital source of support to the regular force.

Tomorrow a contingent from the Keighley police division's 20-strong team of specials - with colleagues from across West Yorkshire - will be helping with the policing of Bradford City's home game against Brighton.

And later this month officers will assist with a robbery-disruption operation, targeting Keighley town centre and hotspots with measures including high-visibility patrols.

Among those taking part in last weekend's vehicle blitz was senior section officer Barrie Smith.

Barrie, 54, a primary school head teacher in Leeds when he is not in uniform, joined the specials 10 years ago.

He told us: "It's an old cliche, but there is a great sense that as a special constable you are putting something back into the community. That gives you great satisfaction.

"The role is voluntary - although you do receive expenses - but we do not seek financial rewards.

"Most of us have other jobs and commitments - among us the occupations range from engineers to nurses - and we do this role because we enjoy the work.

"The powers available to specials are the same as those of regular officers, and in the main we are carrying out the same types of tasks.

"The training is quite intensive - there is home learning and weekends at force headquarters - but even when you are qualified as such, you continue to learn.

"West Yorkshire's special constabulary is recognised as being among the best in the country, and we are proud of that."

Among the younger members of the Keighley team is 19-year-old Michelle Lee.

She joined the specials last November.

"It is something I have always wanted to do," she said. "My uncle is in the South Yorkshire force, and it is my hope that one day I will become a regular officer.

"You have to commit a minimum of four hours a week to the job of special constable, but I do a lot more than that. I love it."

For further information about joining the specials, phone 01535 617069.