Abbots Langley has a new bobby on the beat in PC Paul Beecher.

And for the officer, who has spent more than 20 years in the force, his first port of call will be to crack down on areas of anti-social behaviour and criminal damage.

PC Beecher said: “Abbots Langley is a very safe village which enjoys low levels of crime, however we know that criminal damage around Hazelwood Lane and anti-social behaviour in the High Street are of concern to residents. I’ll strive to build on the good work carried out by the team here.”

PC Beecher has spent 20 years of his career in St Albans, 13 years of which were with the intervention team responding to 999 calls, the rest working with the city’s Safer Neighbourhood Team.

As part of Abbots Langley Safer Neighbourhood Team, PC Beecher has replaced PC Louise Speakman, who has moved to work at police headquarters.

Apart from tackling issues in Abbots Langley concerning residents, PC Beecher also said he is looking forward to forging new links within the village and keeping people safe.

He said: “Having spent 20 years covering St Albans I was keen for a change and requested to join the team in Abbots Langley. It’ll be nice to have a fresh start and a new challenge.

“I’m really looking forward to getting to know the community, and I’ll be visiting businesses and residents as much as possible.

“If you do see me around then feel free to come and say hello.”