Miles Jermy After beginning his career pounding the streets of Gorleston a senior police officer is set to go back on the beat in his new role.Inspector Rickie Botwright is determined to lead from the front after being appointed to head North Yarmouth Safer Neighbourhood Team.

Miles Jermy

After beginning his career pounding the streets of Gorleston a senior police officer is set to go back on the beat in his new role.

Inspector Rickie Botwright is determined to lead from the front after being appointed to head North Yarmouth Safer Neighbourhood Team.

It is the latest challenge for the ex-marine who worked on a series of major investigations during 15 years with Great Yarmouth CID.

“The main difference from what I was doing before is that I will be dealing with everyday problems,” said Insp Botwright.

“In the past I was focused on specific cases, but now part of my role is to focus on low level crime and deal with the underlying causes.

“I want to lead from the front by going out on patrol rather than dictating from behind a desk.

“This is more of a public role, so it is important that people feel able to come and speak to me and get more involved with the team.

“Having met individuals and community groups I am impressed by how passionate and dedicated they are to improving quality of life in the area.”

A tip off from the public led to the closing down of a drugs den on Kitchener Road, where cocaine and heroin had been supplied.

Poling priorities for area include tackling criminal damage in the North Drive and Waterways area, targeting suspected indecent acts at public toilets and dog fouling around Tar Works Road.

An initiative to promote safety in schools is being lead by PCSO Dave Slater and a weapons awareness day is taking place next month is focusing on knife crime.

The Falklands War veteran joined the police following 12 years' service with the Marines.

After starting out as a beat bobby in Gorleston he rose through the ranks and was appointed to the CID in 1993.

A family liaison officer, Insp Botwright was given the task of helping the families of the Norfolk victims of the Asian tsunami and has given advice and support to the relatives of murder victims.

Away from work Insp Botwright, who has two grown up children Rickie junior and Sarah, enjoys keeping fit and painting watercolours.

“I am keen that community policing and the investigation of crime is not treated as separate,” he said.

“I know people are frustrated with PCSOs lack of powers, but they have the full force of the law behind them.

“When I investigated a series of assaults on young girls in the Newtown area a couple of years ago I used PCSOs to do house to house enquiries. They have the local knowledge and contacts and I am keen for the SNT to be involved with all aspects of policing.

“I grew up in Gorleston and live in north Yarmouth, so care about the area I am working in very much.

“It is very important to continue the good work that has already been done involving the public and ensure that crime is cut even further.”

See Page 49 for this month's UpBeat column with Police Superintent Jo Parrett.