They will be based at Okehampton, Totnes, Teignmouth, Newton Abbot, Torquay and Paignton.

The first CSOs, who tackle low-level crime and anti-social behaviour, joined the Devon and Cornwall force two years ago in Truro and Honiton.

The force has 57 CSOs. The are about 3,500 CSOs in England and Wales, but the government wants 25,000 by 2008.

'Very successful'

Although they are unable to make arrests, CSOs have the power to detain people for up to 30 minutes and can tackle minor anti-social behaviour - for example confiscating alcohol and tobacco from minors.

Superintendent Andy Clarke, Commander for South West Devon area, said: "In other areas of the force they have had direct contact with groups within their communities.

"They have proved very successful in resolving problems and working alongside the existing neighbourhood beat managers, I am sure this success will now spread to south Devon."