A NEW top police officer for West Somerset has outlined a series of crime-busting priorities to make the district a safer place.

Neighbourhood Inspector Lisa Simpson has pledged a ‘hands on’ approach to local crime issues, targeting repeat anti-social behaviour offenders.

Insp Simpson, 37, who has taken over from Insp Carole Pearce following her departure last year, said she would also make it her mission to ensure officers avoided complacency and worked hard to prevent, investigate and detect crime.

Other key aims include ensuring people feel safe in the areas they live, keeping residents up to date with the police’s work and directly responding to individuals’ issues or concerns.

Encouraging people to become more involved and informed about the police’s work is also high on her agenda.

Insp Simpson, based at Minehead Police Station, said she was ‘delighted’ to be taking on the role of Neighbourhood Inspector and described the opportunity as ‘a privilege’.

“I hope to build and develop upon the excellent work of my teams across the area and continue to ensure that our towns, villages and parishes receive the service they need and deserve.”

Insp Simpson said that in the past year crime in Minehead had fallen 9% – equating to 163 fewer victims of crime.

“By working together, we can build on this success. I encourage people from across the sector to get in touch with me and let me know your issues and concerns,” she said.

Before her move to West Somerset, Insp Simpson worked in Bristol, Weston and Taunton.

She has worked in several roles and departments over the years, including time spent as a PC, Response Officer, CID Sergeant, CID trainer and a temporary Chief Inspector at Taunton CID.

She has returned to work from maternity leave following the birth of her second child.

Contact your local Safer Stronger Neighbourhood team on 0845-4567000.