new Chief Constable

THIS week I start as the new Chief Constable of Merseyside, and want to continue delivering the best service possible to our community.

I know from my time previously in Merseyside as an Assistant Chief Constable, that the region is diverse in its challenges yet it's full of vibrancy and optimism. I want to make sure that Merseyside Police is at the heart of this optimism, keeping Merseyside safe for everyone.

The diverse nature of crime in today's society will always present a challenge for the police service but I can reassure you that Neighbourhood Policing will be improved and developed - working with you to tackle crime and criminality at its root. We need your continued support.

My priorities as Chief Constable will be to make sure we have the right resources in the right places at the right time. We will be tightening our grip on criminals who use firearms and violence whilst attacking anti-social behaviour in our communities. We'll also be at the forefront of making sure we have a criminal justice system which responds to the needs of crime victims and witnesses.

I want us to have the best police service in the United Kingdom.

I will be joining officers on the beat to see for myself what our community needs and how we can keep in touch with your issues and concerns. In the meantime, please keep letting us know where the criminals are and keep supporting us in our fight against crime. Working together with Merseyside Police Authority and all our partners, together we can keep Merseyside safe.

CHIEF Constable Bernard Hogan-Howe, Merseyside Police.