A total of eight new recruits have become special constables.

Hertfordshire Constabulary has welcomed the new graduates, who went through a selection process and had to pass a final exam.

Assistant Chief Constable Bill Jephson awarded the group with their certificates.

He said: “It is a great honour to welcome these new special constables to the constabulary.

“The work they do is vital in helping us to police the county.

“I want to wish them all well as they now move on to undertake this important role within the communities of Hertfordshire.”

The eight new graduates are:

• Kirsty Tomlin and Michelle Luckings will serve at St Albans Police Station.

• Thomas Sheppard will work at Watford Police Station.

• Melliz Mehmet, who will be based at Broxbourne Police Station.

• Louis Avevor, and Stuart Parker, who will be at Hitchin Police Station.

• Harry Barber and Luke Chisem, will be based out of Stevenage Police Station.

The recruits ascended to their rank following an Attestation Ceremony at Police Headquarters in Stanborough Road, Welwyn Garden City, on Thursday.

During the 11 weeks of training, the recruits learnt about the law surrounding theft, public order, assaults, traffic, powers of arrest and Stop and Search.

Over the next 12 months, they will continue their training, before passing as full special constables.