New top cop takes post in Solihull

A SENIOR policeman - who started his career walking the beat in Solihull - has been named as the borough's new commander.
In his new role, Chief Supt Lee Wharmby will be returning to the patch where he served as a PC more than 25 years ago.
The 47-year-old has taken over from Chief Supt Bas Javid, who had held the top job for two years and has now been seconded to the Metropolitan Police
Chief Supt Wharmby, who has previously worked in counter-terrorism and the murder investigation team during his policing career, will be overseeing the only force area where crime is currently falling.
That said, there are still widespread concerns within communities about levels of offending, with some worried about a dwindling police presence.
The force has seen a significant reduction in staffing since 2010 and local frustrations came to a head at public meetings in Kingshurst and Castle Bromwich last year.
He will also have to steer through the controversial closure of Solihull Police Station, agreed earlier this year. Despite assurances that an alternative base will be found for officers in the town centre, the move has drawn criticism from both borough councillors and the wider public.
Chief Supt Wharmby said: "It is very exciting to be back policing in Solihull, it is a place I have a real affinity for having started my career here.
"I live in the borough so I take even greater pride in the fact I have been entrusted with the role as commander of neighbourhood policing. I know what a fantastic place it is to live, work and socialise and I am hoping my experience can only help policing in the area.
"It is a new role for me but thankfully I have a great team of officers in place to help with our focus on preventing crime, protecting people and helping those in need."