People with time on their hands are being offered the chance to help get police officers back on the streets of south Oxfordshire.

Thames Valley Police is looking for volunteers to take on a range of duties in the area's police stations so that police officers have more time to spend out of their stations patrolling the streets.

The force is looking for help with a range of duties, including manning the front desks at stations, assisting with identification parades and helping with CCTV.

Chief Supt Phil Gormley said: "The importance of the role played by those members of the community who work with the police on a voluntary basis can not be over- estimated.

"Policing the communities of the Thames Valley is achieved with a relatively low number of police officers.

"Our aim is to ensure that these officers are deployed where they are most needed -- in the community.

"In 1996, police volunteer support teams were created to help out in stations performing tasks to support our existing civilian and police staff.

"Since then, these teams have made a huge contribution to Thames Valley Police.

"If new skills are required, training will be provided.

"We are looking for individuals who are aged 16 or over, who are trustworthy, discreet and reliable. For individuals aged 16 and 17 we require the consent of a parent or guardian."

Volunteers can claim expenses, including travel costs to and from their volunteer placement and car parking charges.

Anyone interested needs to complete an application form and provide two character references.

All volunteers have to be subjected to a police check before being accepted into the scheme.

This is followed by an informal interview with the local volunteer co-ordinator. Successful applicants must then complete an induction course.

Would-be volunteers should call Jenni Collins on 01235 556817 or send an e-mail to: jenni.collins@thamesvalley.police.uk