A SPECIAL Constable from Crediton has been recognised for his years of voluntary service to Devon and Cornwall Police.

SC Inspector Robert Webb is self employed and runs a refrigeration trailer hire company.

He became a Special Constable on February 17, 1992 at Crediton Police Station and has been a long-standing member of the Special Constabulary team in Crediton.

His local knowledge of the area and the community has been a great help to his colleagues.

A citation read at an awards ceremony held at the China Fleet Country Club in Saltash stated: "Bob's professionalism and leadership skills were rewarded when he was promoted to sergeant then inspector.

"He has been passionate in building relationships with the rural population and is well respected among the farming community.

"For the past two years Bob has been responsible for setting up a team of rural engagement officers in mid and east Devon.

"He has built up a good working relationship with the National Farmers' Union and other farming bodies, promoting relationships with the police.

"Bob regularly visits cattle markets and farms, giving advice on crime prevention and gaining intelligence. This has proved to be very successful in building trust between the police and rural communities."

Because of the work Bob has done in rural engagement, Devon and Cornwall Police decided to extend the role of rural engagement Special Constables across the two counties.

Bob won the Special Constable of the Year award for Devon Basic Command Unit in 2010.

He also received a Superintendent's Commendation for good work relating to an incident in Crediton last October.

In 2011 Bob won the South West Region Special Constable of the Year.

He was among 10 officers honoured with long service and good conduct medals by Chief Constable Shaun Sawyer .

The ceremony was also attended by Colonel Edward Bolitho OBE, the Lord Lieutenant of Cornwall.

Also among the recipients of awards was Special Constable Linda Bealey.

Linda was sworn into the Special Constabulary on June 18, 1991 and joined the Torrington section where she served for many years, becoming an active and valued member of the local policing team.

She was promoted to sergeant at Torrington in 1999 and inspector in 2003, which required her to transfer to Bideford where she was responsible for all Specials across the Bideford, Torrington and Holsworthy areas.

Linda assists with the assessment of new Special Constables at Middlemoor.

As well as her Special Constabulary role she is also a field officer and leader in Devon Young Farmers' and is also a trustee with the Community Council of Devon.