THERE is a new face at the forefront of policing in Times Territory. Insp Ian Grout has replaced Insp Paul Hart as head of the Welwyn Hatfield neighbourhood team. Having spent three years as intervention inspector for Welwyn Hatfield and Hertsmere,

THERE is a new face at the forefront of policing in Times Territory.

Insp Ian Grout has replaced Insp Paul Hart as head of the Welwyn Hatfield neighbourhood team.

Having spent three years as intervention inspector for Welwyn Hatfield and Hertsmere, Insp Grout said the time was right for a move.

"It's a new challenge for me, and I got to the stage where I needed that," he said.

"It's a complete change of role and I'm looking forward to it."

"The next few weeks are important to get out into the street, meet the people, and find out what the problems are first-hand.

"I'll be drawing on Paul's experience; I'm not going to trying to do it all by myself. I'm sure I'll be calling Paul in the future for advice."

Insp Hart, who has been in the position for 12 years, is moving on to a new role at St Albans.

"When I started doing this in 1997 we were a relatively small team of police officers," he said.

"But the importance of the neighbourhood team has escalated out of all recognition.

"Ian will be in charge of 30 PCSOs, three sergeants, 116 neighbourhood officers, the community safety unit and a few special constables.

"Ian will have different challenges to take on. But I will still be passing through [Hatfield police station] and I'll always be on the end of the phone.

"I'm handing over the baton. I have a close affiliation with Welwyn Hatfield and I'm sad to go, but I'm pleased that someone who I can hand over to with confidence is taking over.