Southwark police has been placed under new command, with an officer whose career with the force began doing work experience, aged just fifteen.
The new borough commander, Simon Messinger, started his first day of the new job on July 4. His appointment follows the departure of Zander Gibson, who held the position since March 2014, and was transferred to the Met Police’s royalty and specialist protection command.
Mr Messinger said: “At the end of my first week as borough commander at Southwark, I wanted to say how pleased I am to have taken up the role.
“I first came here for a week’s work experience when I was fifteen, and then as a detective sergeant between 2003 and 2005, so returning as borough commander is an absolute privilege.
“I’m naturally keen to continue the strong performance that has been established. Southwark has a long history of engagement between its residents and police, local council and voluntary organisations and we are striving to not only continue but expand on this area of Policing where possible.
“Working together with all the interested parties on any given issue we can make the most of what we have by coordinating our efforts and focus.”
Meanwhile. superintendent Liz Hughes has taken over from Dave Jackson. Liz worked for the Met in community safety for Hackney police, and as head of policy for the Independent Police Complaints Commission.