Stamford once had a thriving force of special constables but there are now just two people who are willing to give something back to the community.
Special Constable Andrew Woodward is one of those volunteers who helps the full time police officers. He also works as a freelance training and engineering drawing worker.
Special officers have the same powers of arrest as regular officers and play an important role in the fight against crime by providing a welcome boost in numbers.
Officer Woodward carries out many of the same jobs as regular officers but also lends a hand in dealing with issues such as parking.
He joined up four years ago after being inspired to give something back and has never looked back.
Officer Woodward, 40, of Little Bytham, said: "The most positive part of the job is being out with the public and talking to them and them talking to you.
"I was at last year's Good Friday's procession and the amount of people who came over to have a chat that was quite a nice part of the job. We are approachable.
"I had someone call me at home about a matter they wanted some advice on. They must feel that I am approachable and have the knowledge to do that, which is nice."
Officer Woodward volunteered with charities in the past and felt that joining the police was the next step.
Specials have to pass a number of assessments, including an aptitude test, before undergoing 10-week training sessions. They then spend time out with a tutor officer.
Specials carry handcuffs, a baton and CS spray as regular officers do.
Lincolnshire Police requires special officers to volunteer for a minimum of four hours a week.
Officer Woodward said: "I can do this as and when I want and can fit it in with my work. I have flexibility."
He is a member of the Stamford neighbourhood beat team and also gets to do frontline work such as helping out at accident scenes or major events, along with providing a police presence on Friday and Saturday nights.
He says his finest hour in uniform was catching a 21-year-old man, who ran off after an assault, when he was 39 years old.
He said: "I know there is a lot stuff in the papers about there not being enough policemen. When you are involved you realise how stretched they are.
"I know parking is a big issue for the people of Stamford and I can help provide that service and free up regular officers."
Stamford Police Station's Insp Gary Stewart is appealing for more specials and says they are an integral part of the force.
He said: "Specials have been with us for many years. They supplement our numbers, are a valuable resource and it adds to the polce and the community. It is a worthwhile job."
Specials must be aged over 18 and be in good health. People with a conviction and caution may still be eligible for an appointment and certain occupations are ineligible.
For more information or to apply to become a special constable contact 01522 558354.