Wokingham

Wokingham LPA’s two new Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs) say they can’t wait to play an active role in the community.

Michael Neave and Irene McKenzie were introduced to the local media today (15/12) and both said they could not wait to complete their training and begin working with the Wokingham communities they will serve.

PCSO McKenzie, a former customer service advisor who will cover Woodley, said: “I’m really looking forward to getting out in the area and getting to know the community and its issues.

“I think the public find PCSOs easier to talk to because we are out on patrol virtually all of the time we are at work and we are highly visible.

“I have been looking for a job where I could be out and about speaking to people and that is exactly what this job offers.”

PCSO McKenzie’s views are shared by her colleague PCSO Michael Neave, a former jailer at Loddon Valley police station, who will be covering the Norreys area of Wokingham.

He said: “I’ve seen police work from the other side and I’m now looking forward to getting out there, making a difference to the community and trying to tackle their issues and concerns.”

The two new recruits mean Wokingham now has eight PCSOs and the LPA will look to recruit at least another 15.

Ch Insp Tony Ismay, the LPA Commander, said: “We now have eight excellent PCSOs in this area who have enhanced our Neighbourhood Policing team.

“We are looking to recruit at least another 15 and if anyone is interested in a job that offers real variety, diversity and the opportunity to help improve a community then I would love to hear from them.”

*If you are interested in finding out more about what being a PCSO involves, then please contact the national call centre on 0845 600 0925 or go to www.rewardingrole.co.uk.

Thames Valley Police ~ Wokingham