MORE special constables could be seen on patrol as more volunteers came forward.

At a Halstead Town Council meeting on Monday, mayor Andrew Munday said that if there was an influx in volunteers the council could consider extending the budget to allow for more special constables in Halstead.

He said: “There is a view that we could in future think about upping the budget if it’s deemed as a success since a lot of volunteers have been willing to come forward which is a great sign.”

Halstead Town Council originally set aside enough funding for three special constables.

Over the past few weeks the first of the three – Michael Mihalyfi – has been out on patrol, while others are still in training.

Mr Mihalyfi told councillors that there are three other would-be specials in training, and the two who complete their portfolio first will be joining him on patrols.

He told the council: “My day job is a driving instructor so I’m out and about around the town anyway, but my main role is just walking around the town and engaging with the public and combatting any issues like Butler Road car park and deal with any issues that people have.”

Mr Munday and other council members praised Mr Mihalyfi and thanked him for joining the specials team. Member of the public have said they feel safer and reassured knowing there are more police patrolling Halstead.

Nallarasan Kannan’s Premier Express shop was ram-raided last November.

He said: “There is more safety now. If they keep going like that, people appreciate it and people are happy.”

Mr Mihalyfi encouraged councillors and the public to follow him on Twitter to keep up to date with the work that is being done in the town.

Follow the specials in Halstead at @SCMihalyfi on Twitter.