Thames Valley Police Authority is recruiting independent inspectors to check out the conditions in police cells.

It wants to recruit volunteers, representing diverse backgrounds, as custody visitors across the force area.

Thames Valley has 80 volunteer custody visitors. Last year, these visitors carried out more than 300 inspections. Each visitor is expected to carry out a minimum of six visits annually.

Custody visitors see the conditions in which people are kept in police station cells and provide an independent check on the way police officers behave towards people in custody.

Visitors make random inspections in pairs. They can see people held in the cells, ask questions and observe procedures.

The visitors can make a report on their findings and any concerns can be followed up to ensure that appropriate action is been taken.

Mike Byfield, the authority's assistant clerk and custody visitor administrator, said the scheme was an excellent opportunity for Oxfordshire residents to "give something back" to the community .

He said: "We are trying to ensure that we have a complete cross-section of age, gender and race to give us total impartiality.

"It is a rewarding opportunity which many people find fascinating once they understand the role."

All interested candidates are interviewed. Those selected will be appointed to a police station near their home and given training.

Call Mr Byfield on 01865 846780 for more information.