A new chief inspector has been appointed for Hertsmere.

Responsible for managing Hertsmere borough policing teams, new chief inspector Tannis Perks has taken on the role from Chief Inspector Dean Patient.

Chief Inspector Perks started her career as a special constable in 1988 before joining as a regular in 1990 and climbing the ranks to become a Chief Inspector.

After 24 years' service, she said: “I still enjoy coming to work every day, I wouldn’t want to do any other job.

“Over the years it is hard seeing people at their most vulnerable, but despite the circumstances, part of the job is to help people through difficult situations and it is rewarding when you know you have achieved that.

“I want to ensure that everyone who has contact with my team receives the best service possible, which sometimes is simply calling someone back to update them about what has happened.”

The 45-year-old joined Hertfordshire after serving for two years as a special constable in Epping in Essex, in 1990, and has since moved through the ranks and worked in a variety of detective roles including serious and organised crime tackling organised gangs.

She said: “Hertsmere is a unique area with its busy roads and film studios and diverse communities and I was very pleased to be asked to take on this role. From a policing perspective, we have low levels of crime.

“A main priority for me will be to continue to keep people safe. We will also be working closely with parents of young people involved in anti-social behaviour.

“I look forward to building on the excellent relationship we have with Hertsmere Borough Council and I’m pleased they recently agreed to continue funding additional PCSOs. I also welcome the opportunity to work with London boroughs as we are on their border.”