A NEW chief inspector is looking after Northwich and Winsford following a force shake-up in Cheshire.

Chief Insp Simon Meegan started his new job on Monday as part of changes by Cheshire Constabulary to cut costs but increase the number of frontline officers.

These plans will also see an additional 10 officers on the beat in Northwich by the end of this financial year with electoral wards having a dedicated PC and PCSO.

Chief Insp Meegan said: "I am proud to be appointed as the Commander for your Local Policing Unit to serve the communities of Northwich, Winsford, Tarporley and surrounding areas.

"I have 18 years' service with the force and have been a resident in this area for longer, so I care passionately at both a personal and professional level about our community.

"While crime continues to fall against a background of austerity, we cannot be complacent and I want to continue to build on the strong partnerships we have in this area.

"Despite the financial challenges, we are investing in neighbourhood policing, which will mean more officers in your communities.

"My priorities are simple – we will target those that commit crime and anti-social behaviour and be there for you when you need us."

Overall, Cheshire Constabulary is putting 130 officers back on the frontline, including existing officers and more than 50 new recruits.

"We're one of the few forces recruiting at the moment," said Chief Insp Meegan.

Cheshire Constabulary has a budget of £190 million and has made savings of £37 million in the past four years.

The austerity trend shows no signs of changing and the force expects to have to save further £30 million in the next four years.

The restructure will see officers from the Local Policing Unit based at Northwich Police Station, in Chesterway, while Winsford Police Station will become a helpdesk.

All officers will be briefed and deployed from Northwich, reducing the number of supervision staff needed.

The constabulary is also investing in technology to allow officers to work effectively away from the station and help them to spend more time on the beat.