A new police commander has been appointed to lead policing in east Cornwall.

Superintendent Steve Parker has assumed responsibility for crime and community policing across the area which takes in towns such as Newquay, Bodmin, Wadebridge and St Austell.

The appointment is for six months while Superintendent Julie Whitmarsh is away from the Force.

Supt Parker joined Devon and Cornwall Police in 1994 and has served in Plymouth, and Cornwall in both uniform and CID roles.

Most recently he worked in the public protection unit and also has experience in the major crime investigation team.

Since being appointed he has met with many of his officers, staff and Special Constables, plus representatives from partner agencies.

“I am thrilled to take on my new role as commander for east Cornwall,” he said.

“This is one of the safest places to live in the country and one of the reasons for that is down to the dedication and commitment of officers and staff who deliver the very best possible service.”

Among the policing challenges in the area are offences of violence with injury linked to domestic abuse, the night time economy and antisocial behaviour.

“Since April last year crime in east Cornwall has dropped by 4.5 per cent and 70 per cent of the public think the police do a good job in their area,” he said.

“In real terms this means 242 less victims of burglary, 12 fewer people have been robbed and 36 fewer have had their cars broken into.

“There are still policing challenges and I will work tirelessly with my team to address them."