Sgt Mike Franklin is to take up a new post as secretary to the Police Federation at Devizes HQ from December 18. Sgt Franklin has been in charge in Malmesbury for five years and his final day was on Sunday, December 2.

"My intention had been to see out the rest of my police service at Malmesbury but the opportunity to take over as secretary to the Police Federation came up and I have taken it," said Sgt Franklin, 48, who lives in Chippenham.