New PCSOs on the beat following recruitment drive

Abbi Symes and Jan Bakewell have been added to the ranks at the Kings Langley and Hemel Hempstead South East Safer Neighbourhood Team, which covers the Bovingdon, Flaunden, Chipperfield, Kings Langley, Apsley and Corner Hall, Bennetts End, Leverstock Green and Nash Mills wards.

The team of works alongside the regular police force to improve the community and make the area safer, by tackling crime and anti-social behaviour.

Former medical personnel assistant Abbi will cover the Apsley and Corner Hall area.

She said: said: “I have always wanted a job which is challenging but allows me to help the public. Working for the police is a perfect opportunity to be able to communicate with residents and make a positive difference to their quality of life.

“I will be tackling anti-social behaviour by working with the local businesses and the community. I would also like to encourage the community to join Neighbourhood Watch to help reduce the risk of crime and increase everybody’s safety.

Bennetts End and Leverstock Green’s new PCSO Jan was a lisure manager at the golf range before taking up the important post.

He said: “I joined because I wanted a job that provided variety and in which I could help people. I hope to build on the relationship between the police and residents in my areas and tackling the anti-social behaviour issues.

“I will also be tackling theft from cars and theft of pedal cycles. In order to do this I intend to identify the trouble spots and ensure that these areas are regularly patrolled to maintain a visible policing presence.”

The new recruits are part of a campaign by Herts police and crime commissioner David Lloyd and the county force to recruit 80 new PCSOs. He described the role as ‘essential’ in maintaining the constabulary’s low-crime record.

Safer Neighbourhood Inspector for Dacorum George Holland said: “I hope people will join me in welcoming Abbi and Jan.

“Their work will include working directly with the community they serve to tackle long term issues and address any concerns they have about their neighbourhood.

“They bring with them good work experience in their previous roles and I have no doubt that they will be a positive addition to your Safer Neighbourhood Team.”