A popular police officer who has walked the beat for the past 30 years is to step down from his role as police constable for Kings Langley.

PC Nik Pringle joined Hertfordshire Constabulary in October 1980 and has spent the last seven years covering Nash Mills and Kings Langley.

A well-regarded figure in the villages he has sought to serve and protect, he will bid farewell to his position on Sunday, October 3, as he retires from the force.

While working for the police, PC Pringle has worked in a variety of roles including intervention and immediate response as a coroner’s officer and most recently as a member of the Safer Neighbourhoods Team in Hemel Hemsptead, where he has been based for nineteen years.

He is also a trained search officer and has utilised his skills in some of the major critical incidents Hertfordshire has had over the years such as the Potters Bar and Hatfield rail disasters and Buncefield.

Throughout his career he has also been a member of the Hertfordshire Police Historic society and is also secretary of the Hertfordshire International Police Association.

He said: “Thirty years have gone so quickly and I have enjoyed every aspect of my career.

“Everyday has been a highlight and it has meant so much to me to be able to help people over the years.

“When people say that I have helped them get things back on track, or I have been of assistance and have helped resolve an issue for them, it is so good to know.

"I have thoroughly enjoyed every minute.”

Although PC Pringle is retiring as a full time police officer, blue lights will not be far away, as he will spend some of his time as a member of the Special Constabulary.

A married father of two teenage daughters, he is also looking forward to spending more time at home, especially as he now has two Alsatian puppies to care for.

And he hopes to continue with his many interests throughout his retirement – including writing a book on Hertfordshire murders over the last 300 years.

He said: “I feel very privileged to have been able to serve the people of Hertfordshire and feel very fortunate to have carried out the work I have.

"I hope I have helped people.”

Describing Nik Pringle’s importance as PC to Kings Langley, Councillor Gerry Angiolini, vice-chairman of Kings Langley Parish Council, said: “Before Nik took over crimes were being recorded at 50 to 60 per month, and now it averages at about 25.

"Last August there were only nine, so it’s clear to see that he has made a huge difference to the village.

“He is a popular officer who is well regarded by everyone that knows him. He will be missed and we can only hope that is his replacement will be half as good.”