STURMINSTER Newton has welcomed a new face to its neighbourhood policing team with PC Chris Foott officially starting his role this week.

He joins PC Ed Lewis and PCSO Laura Whalley in helping to keep the town safe, visible and well connected to residents.

PC Foott wasted no time getting stuck in today, putting the “Foott” in foot patrol during a busy morning out in the community.

His first day saw him visiting several spots, including meeting Baxter the dog and his owner Cheryl at The Boutique – Preloved, checking in with staff at the town council and speaking with several residents outside The Exchange.

He also received reports of damage caused to Christmas decorations over the weekend. PC Foott will be following up on this information as part of his early enquiries.

PC Foott says he’s looking forward to getting to know more residents and becoming a familiar face around town.

He will be out and about regularly, and the team encourages anyone who spots him to stop and say hello.

The Sturminster Newton Neighbourhood Policing Team says it continues to rely on the support of the community to report concerns, suspicious behaviour or incidents.

You can contact police online at https://orlo.uk/sMZFe or by calling 101. Dial 999 in an emergency.