BIDFORD residents will have a new bobby on the beat to tackle the number of antisocial behaviour and nuisance issues in the village.

PC Doug Johnson was appointed the beat officer's job last month and takes over the role from Pete Gately who has retired.

The 31-year-old who has worked at Alcester police station attending emergency calls is more than happy to serve the community of Bidford.

PC Johnson said: "I'm very happy to be working in Bidford there are a few nuisance issues in the village which I hope to get to the bottom of fairly soon."

His work will supported by the community support officer Martin Sanford currently working in Bidford.

Bidford parish council clerk Elisabeth Uggerloese said: "The Parish Council expressed great satisfaction at having a permanent beat officer appointed to the village and members of the council extend their welcome to him.

"Many have already met him when he is going round the village and all have said that they feel he is doing a good job of getting to know the locals, both young and old and are hopeful that he will be able to assist in getting rid of the anti-social behaviour which currently exists is some parts of the village. He also keeps the Parish Office well informed paying regular visits to discuss the various situations."

l Warwickshire Police figures show that one anti-social behaviour order and four Criminal Rehabilitation anti-social behaviour orders have been issued in the last 12 months in the Stratford District Council area, which includes Bidford.

PC Doug Johnson, new police officer in Bidford jan 06146. Picture by LOUISE BARSNLEY