CALNE'S new police sergeant Nic Shorten started work this week, pledging to battle drug-related crime.

Sgt Shorten will target crime, such as petty theft and burglary, which he believes are often caused by drug addicts searching for their next hit.

But he knows Calne can only be effectively policed with the cooperation of the community. Until he settles in continuity not change will be Sgt Shorten's watchwords.

He is eager to reassure Calne residents that he does not plan to change the style of policing that the town became accustomed to under his predecessor Sgt Dick Ball.

He said: "I want to provide a quality service to the residents of Calne and the neighbouring villages and provide them with the kind of policing they deserve. I'm excited about the prospect of working closely with the community and want to continue the good work of my predecessor."

Sgt Shorten worked in CID for 13 years and has only been back in uniform for four days, but he is excited about the challenge of returning to community policing.

"I'm looking forward to establishing my role as a frontline officer, dealing with the day-to-day problems which confront people," he said. "It's why I joined the force in the first place."

Calne town and district councillor Mercy Baggs said: "Nic Shorten is going to be good for Calne. He's got a good grasp on the problems and I'm sure he will continue the excellent work of sear gent Dick Ball."