ENGAGEMENT with staff and the public are at the heart of a senior police officer's approach in his new role to develop a strategic alliance between two forces.

Avon and Somerset's chief sup Julian Moss has been appointed to the position of Temporary Assistant Chief Constable to develop the strategic alliance between Wiltshire Police and Avon and Somerset Constabulary.

Leaders in both areas announced plans at the end of January to widen their existing collaborations to help achieve significant savings over the next five years.

Chief supt Moss said: “I am absolutely delighted to have been appointed as programme director to lead on the development of the strategic alliance between Wiltshire and Avon and Somerset police forces.

“This is an exciting and challenging programme of work, with huge potential and opportunity. I will ensure that both forces are treated as equal partners and that together we fully understand the challenges faced by each force.

“For much of my career I have worked closely with local communities and with partnerships. This has taught me that trust and confidence are some of the most important characteristics of successful collaboration.

“I hope that one of the most important qualities I can bring will be an ability to listen. Good open communications and engagement with officers, staff and the public will be at the very heart of my approach, keeping everyone up to date with progress at every step.

“I very much look forward to getting started. My first job will be to bring together a joint programme team with people from each of the two forces.”

John Long, acting chief constable of Avon & Somerset said: “Julian has a great deal of experience spanning many facets of policing and a very strong background of working with partners, at a community and strategic level. These strengths will be invaluable in his leadership of the Strategic Alliance programme.”

Mike Veale, who becomes chief constable of Wiltshire on June 1, added: “Julian Moss is an excellent choice to lead this vital programme. He has been closely involved in regional collaborations and that experience will stand him in good stead in this important new role.”