Plea for custody check volunteers in Cumbria

Volunteers are being sought to make spot checks on the welfare of people being held in custody in police cells in Cumbria.

Working in pairs, custody visitors make unannounced visits to police stations in the Barrow and Ulverston areas.

They do not take sides, but make impartial reports on their findings.

Training is given and expenses are paid. Anyone interested in applying must get in touch with the Cumbria Police Authority before 24 May.

The authority said the scheme aims to improve public confidence in the police and help gain a clear insight into the running of custody facilities within the county.