The new police inspector for Devizes sets his sights on helping the vulnerable.

Nick Mawson has now become the new inspector for Devizes, taking over from Matt Armstrong. As well as covering Devizes, Insp Mawson also covers Pewsey, Marlborough and Melksham.

Insp Mawson, 40 of Devizes, said: “I have been in the force for 18 years, spending most of my career in Swindon with only six years spent in other places. I started with two years probationary in what was Westlea, Swindon, where I then progressed to a team targeting burglaries, which then lead to being part of the CID.

“I have also done some of the covert work too before I got a promotion to Sergeant 11 years ago. I have been in Devizes for only two and a half weeks, so it is a bit early to say what I am aiming for in the area. My main concern is to make sure that we attend those in need, sometimes this can be difficult when our resources are being stretched. We need to make sure we reach those most vulnerable and keep them safe and target those who cause the most harm.

“It is good to have people who are interested in their community, people care and that is half the battle. We all need to work together, that is what my job is about, long term problem solving and reducing the demand. Community projects are really useful and committed members of those communities are invaluable.”

Starting at a difficult time for policing, where government cutbacks are causing issues for the response services, Insp Mawson wanted to make clear that the police force in the area want to help as much as possible.

“If people feel like we don’t have a link in the community then they can let us know, at this difficult time it is difficult not to disappoint people. We do have to focus on certain areas which might mean we cannot be everywhere at once, I do hope people understand.”