THE new police community support officer in Royal Wootton Bassett is settling in to his role after causing a sensation on social media.

Nineteen-year-old Josh Sherratt was only his second day on Tuesday, but by the end of it the post on Facebook to introduce him to the area had been seen by about 20,000 people, earned more than 300 likes and attracted dozens of complimentary comments.

“I wasn’t expecting so many people to actually see it,” he told the Advertiser yesterday. “It has made a massive impact.

“When I was going round yesterday people were saying ‘I saw you on Facebook.’”

There were several comments about his youthful appearance but he was expecting that and took it in good part.

“I’m quite good with taking jokes and banter.”

But it appeared some of the team’s followers were also taken with his good looks and among the good luck messages were jokes about an increase in crime reporting. Some hopefuls even asked if he was single.

“I found it quite funny,” said Josh, who revealed he does have a partner. “When I went in yesterday my sergeant put it in the briefing and they were giving me banter. It was nice. It’s just building a relationship with my colleagues.”

The former Hardenhuish School student, who lives near Chippenham, is keen on eventually joining the force as a PC and plans to use his time as a PCSO to learn more about the job before applying.

“I’m set on becoming a police officer at the moment. I’ve always wanted it since a young age.”

His uncle is a sergeant in London and has been an inspiration to him. “I’ve just always thought of it as a good career. I like to help people and that’s one of the things we do.”

It may be early days but he is enjoying himself and has already been out and about meeting people, including having a scoot with youngsters and fellow PCSO Andy Singfield at Cricklade skate park.

“I feel so welcome,” he said. “Everyone is very friendly. I feel part of the team already.

Later this week he will be helping to police the WOMAD music festival over at Malmesbury.