A NEW police officer is patrolling the streets of Wythall, Alvechurch and Beoley.

Pc Mark Townsend has become the new community beat bobby after the departure of Pc Paul Twentyman.

Pc Townsend, married with two children, brings a wealth of experience to the job after spending 18 years on the force, with 10 years based at Wythall Station.

He has also worked as a response officer for the Redditch force and an attachment to proactive CID.

Pc Townsend said he was also looking to progress with the newly started police surgery at Woodrush High School, Wythall.

Pc Twentyman spent two years as the beat manager and will be missed throughout the villages.

He has now moved to Malvern Police and is working for the speed enforcement team.