Sussex Police were today handed almost £70,000 to recruit at least an extra 75 special constables.

The Government has taken action after a big slump in numbers since 1997.

Figures published last year showed the total in Sussex was down to 306, compared to 472 when Labour came to power.

Now £69,898 will be spent to recruit dedicated staff and trainers to increase the number of special constables and stop others leaving the force.

Police will be expected to recruit at least 75 additional specials over the next three years.

Home Office Minister Hazel Blears said: "Volunteer special constables are a crucial part of modern day policing.

"The skills, experience and local knowledge they bring to policing makes a huge contribution to the communities they serve."