A new police officer has been appointed to a community engagement role as part of efforts to make Ipswich safer.

PC Chris Garrod has been made the town's new community engagement officer (CEO), in a plan from Suffolk police to increase police visibility.

He will provide a visible uniform presence in the town, and offer the opportunity for members of the public to raise issues directly, as part of the Safer Neighbourhood Team (SNT).

PC Garrod is a serving police officer and has been for 27 years, predominantly in community-based policing in the area.

He will be able to address concerns that are raised and help set priorities for the town.

PC Garrod said: “It is an honour to be given the opportunity to perform this role and I look forward to interacting with as many people as possible in Ipswich town centre, whether they be living, working or visiting this historic town.

“I have numerous connections and a passion for the town in both my professional and personal life.

“Through my role as the CEO, I plan to be a friendly, visible and approachable police presence, where people can come to me to have a chat or discuss any concerns that they may have.

“I plan on building up positive working relationships with businesses, traders, and local groups. This will help me identify any areas of concern so I can develop strategies to continue to promote Ipswich town centre as a safe place for all to live, work and visit.”

The role is based at Suffolk Constabulary’s new police station in Princes Street, which opened in September.

Suffolk’s police and crime commissioner Tim Passmore added: “Policing our county town has always been a priority and I am pleased to see these extra resources focused on the town centre.

“Public trust and confidence in our police service is crucially important and I know local residents, businesses and visitors to the town will be reassured by this additional police presence, particularly having a named officer for them to engage with directly."