A DUDLEY borough crimefighting service has appointed a new operations manager.

David Bryce has joined the borough's Business Crime Partnership after serving 32 years in the police force.

His role will see him help to reduce crime and provide criminal and anti-social intelligence by working closely with the police, Crown Prosecution Service and private security workers.

Mike Holder, business crime partnership chair, said: "David brings with him a wealth of knowledge and experience that will no doubt play a key part in continuing to reduce crime across the borough.

"David will be looking at new ways to tackle crime, which include expanding the scheme to industrial estates and to look at the night time economy in our town centres."

Councillor Anne Millward, cabinet member for community safety, said: "I am delighted to welcome David to the partnership and I'm sure his experience will help us to make the borough a safer and more pleasant place for everyone."