ESSEX Police is “lousy” at keeping hold of special constables, it is claimed.

New Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) Roger Hirst, wants to double the number of specials from 300 to 600.

In 2014-2015, 119 people left the special constabulary compared with 83 joiners.

Last year, the number of leavers was 96 compared with 114 joiners.

Speaking to the BBC, Mr Hirst said: “We have been lousy at keeping people.

“They either end up not feeling engaged or they think it is great fun and become police officers.

“That’s going to take something of a change attitude towards special constables.”

Special constables give a minimum of 16 hours voluntary service per month, but work an average of 24 hours per month.