A NEW inspector has been appointed to look after policing in the rural countryside.

Andy Kirkham is looking to maintain community links and relations as he takes on the role of District Inspector for Conwy and Denbighshire rural.

Insp Kirkham has been responsible for the area which includes Denbigh, Ruthin, Llangollen, Corwen, Betws-y-Coed, Llanrwst, the city of St Asaph and the surrounding villages for a month.

He started his policing career 19 years ago covering Rhyl and Abergele. He became a sergeant in Ruthin, Colwyn Bay and in custody, before being promoted to inspector, where he has served in central area of the force and in the control room.

He said: "I have a good knowledge of the location and the challenges affecting the communities. It’s more about crime management and looking after issues in each area.

"I would like to enhance the service we provide to victims of crime and I want the team to be as visible as possible. It’s all about community based working – dealing with people and speaking about different issues.

"We are working with other agencies to address these issues and are keen to engage with the public – I want people to tell us what is going on in the towns and the more rural areas."

Insp Kirkham will be supported by Sgt Jonny Hill, who covers Ruthin, Trefriw, Llanrwst and Betws-yCoed; Sgt Neil Stringfellow who covers Denbigh and St Asaph, and Sgt Martin Jones who is responsible for Llangollen and Corwen.

Report any suspicious behaviour to police by telephoning 101.