Ledbury's new parish officer, Mark Read, will be on the beat in less than a fortnight after beginning training this week.

Mr Read, 43, from Malvern, will meet Ledbury mayor Coun Keith Francis on Tuesday, to discuss his role in the community.

Unlike the existing community support officer, Alison Dore, who is funded by West Mercia Police, Mr Read is funded by the town council.

He will be based at Ledbury Police Station and is being trained by beat managers, PCs Gordon Headon and Keith Eyles.

Mr Read's father, Mike, was Superintendent in Malvern, until he retired in the late 70s.

Mr Read said: "I do come from a police family background. I want people to approach me and tell me about the issues that are important to them."

He added that he saw his role as a liaison between the police and the town council and the community.

Before he was appointed, Mr Read worked in sales and marketing.

Coun Francis said he hoped that the parish officer would be helpful in helping to tackle community concerns, such as vandalism on the Recreation Ground.