Gorleston High Street's new beat manager said she wants to help raise the community spirit in her patch.

PC Isabel Carroll started the role in May after spending two years in the response unit at Great Yarmouth.

Having grown up in the area, the 21-year-old constable has close links with Gorleston and Great Yarmouth. She said she wants the community to thrive once again.

Great Yarmouth Mercury: PC Carroll wants to see Gorleston High Street thrive once again. Picture - NewsquestPC Carroll wants to see Gorleston High Street thrive once again. Picture - Newsquest (Image: Archant Norfolk © 2016)

"It has been very good so far," said PC Carroll. 

"Over the past few months, I have worked closely with the Steam House Cafe, Change Gorw Live and the Well. They are all brilliant and do so much for the area."

PC Carroll said she has also visited Ormiston Cliff Park Primary Academy, Stradbroke Primary Academy and St Mary and St Peter Catholic Primary, informing pupils about what police work involves and letting them try on the uniform.

"And we've got a lot more planned for the next school year," she said.

"Some children have had bad experiences with us from a young age if their families have been involved with crime. 

"But we want to break down those barriers and reassure people that if they're in trouble, they can come to us."

Great Yarmouth Mercury: PC Isabel Carroll said she joined the force to help people. Picture - James WeedsPC Isabel Carroll said she joined the force to help people. Picture - James Weeds (Image: James Weeds)

Last month, police were involved in several public events to highlight the effect antisocial behaviour and alcohol misuse has on communities.

"We did get people talking to us more about these kinds of issues," said PC Carroll.

"And I do think people respond really well by seeing officers on the beat more."

PC Carroll said that as Gorleston High Street has seen several store closures over the past year, she wants to see more people and businesses looking out for one another.

"There is always going to be people doing bad things," she said.

"But I joined the job to be a friendly face and to help people. Together, we can make the area thrive."

If you have any concerns or issues to raise with PC Carroll, call 101 or stop her in the street for a chat.