POLICING across Dudley borough has entered a new era, with a new leader at the helm.

Chief Superintendent Chris Johnson, has only been the commander of Dudley Local Policing Unit for a matter of weeks but he already has plans to take the force forward.

He said: "This is one of the safest places to live and work in the country and I aim to build on recent successes to further serve our communities and protect them from harm."

Engaging with communities will be a main priority, he said: "I want people to know it is my job to make sure they have the very best service.

"It's early days but I hope to set up a forum to help people inform me about local policing for the future. I want them to tell me what we can do together to tackle anti-social behaviour and advise me what we should be focusing on and help shape the service."

He continued: "This borough is vibrant and diverse and I am proud to be taking charge of such a professional and dedicated team of officers, staff and other specialist police teams."

After 23 years service, more recently working in force contact, where he helped to introduce the two new non-emergency contact centres, Chief Supt Johnson said getting the opportunity to be a lead for policing in Dudley was "fantastic".

He added: "I am delighted to be stepping into the role of commander for the Dudley borough and am especially looking forward to getting to know my officers, partner agency staff and most importantly the local community. I love the honest and positive way that local people interact. They tell you how it is and are really proud of the place where they live."