Shropshire Star

Shropshire's new PCC enjoying chance to meet community and tackle crime priorities

Shropshire's new police and crime commissioner said he has spent his first month in the role meeting people in the community.

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John Campion was elected into the role in May, taking over from Bill Longmore.

In his first update, the new PCC said he has spent his first month working to deliver on his pledges, as well as meeting people from across West Mercia.

"My first month in office has been focused on starting to deliver some of my key election pledges," he said.

"It has been fantastic to meet so many people all wanting to help create a safer West Mercia and start to tackle some of the most pressing priorities for our local communities," he said.

"There is a lot to be done, but I will continue to work hard to deliver for local communities and I am looking forward to the challenges ahead. It has been a priority for me to be visible and engaging with our communities across the whole force area."

Mr Campion has also begun work on his Safer West Mercia Plan which will set specific aims for making communities safer over the next four years. He is also holding a consultation on victim services until the end of July.

He is also working to find a new chief constable after David Shaw announced at the start of the year that he would be stepping down.

A policeman for more than 30 years, including a stint at West Midlands Police, Mr Shaw will retire on July 3. He became chief constable in August 2011.

Mr Campion said: "I will be appointing someone who shares the same commitment – someone who ensures we meet the current and future challenges policing will face and someone that will help me continue to modernise the force and make sure it is equipped for the 21st century.

"I would also take the opportunity to congratulate David, who was awarded the Queen's Policing Medal in the recent Honours list. David has enjoyed a long and distinguished career serving the public, dedicating more than 30 years to making people safer and protecting communities."

He has reached and performed at the very highest level of policing, and this medal is a fitting tribute for all that he has achieved."

During Mr Campion's first month, there have been moves to make officers more visible in the local area, with bikes being used to travel around the county.

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