A SPECIAL constable has become the first volunteer police officer in the borough to qualify for independent patrol status.

Bromley police’s Mark Burchell, aged 24, achieved the status after he was judged to be competent to patrol effectively alone.

Catering manager Mr Burchell joined as a special constable in October 2007.

Special constables volunteer at least 16 hours a month to work alongside regular police officers.

They wear the same uniform and have the same powers and responsibilities.

Bromley police’s training manager Sergeant Simon Bradley said “Mark must be congratulated on his achievements here volunteering his own time to serve the people of Bromley.”