New chief takes over in Woodbridge

WORKING with the community to make Woodbridge safer is one of the aims of the riverside town's new police chief.

Insp Ben Cook arrives to take over as sector commander at a time when the town centre is being plagued by early-hours vandalism and traders are campaigning for closed-circuit TV cameras to be installed.

But Insp Cook says he is keen to form partnerships with all parts of the community and other bodies to tackle crime.

"I am aware of the strong sense of community spirit displayed locally and how good policing can contribute to this," he said.

"I want to work with the community and the dedicated staff at Woodbridge police station to build on the efforts of my predecessor and to help make Suffolk the safest county in the country by 2006.

"I'm also keen to work hard with the various agencies and organisations to achieve this and would encourage those having contact with the police to take the time and trouble to write in to me reporting their views on how we are doing."

Ipswich born and bred and a former Metropolitan police officer, Insp Cook has been a control room inspector at Martlesham HQ for the past three years, co-ordinating the response to 999 crime calls as they come in.

He has a young family and his hobbies include squash, badminton and DIY.

He takes over from Insp Trevor Brundle, who has been at Woodbridge for nearly three years, and is moving to Martlesham to take up the post of force staff development officer.

"During my time at Woodbridge we've seen the establishment of six new Community Police Officer posts – five constables and sergeant – bringing the total up to ten," he said.

"Every parish now has an identifiable community officer and they and all the staff at Woodbridge are committed to serving the public.

"The area is a relatively safe place to live but the local community must work with the police to help maintain this status."