'Improving services for our rural communities is key' says newly-elected Bedfordshire PCC

Conservative Festus Akinbusoye emerged victorious in the PCC election held on Thursday, May 6 (see story here).

Speaking to the Leighton Buzzard Observer immediately after his election win, Mr Akinbusoye outlined some of his upcoming plans for the area.

He said: "I've listened to the concerns that residents have raised, particularly around anti-social behaviour and drug dealing, but I also know that they are very worried about the levels of police presence.

"So, I'm going to be working very closely with the chief constable and I know that he is open to workable solutions to resolve the policing issues in the area.

"One of the positive things at the moment is that we've got police officer numbers going up. We're being joined by almost 300 new police officers at the moment.

"An important part of my campaign and what will be an important part of my Police and Crime Plan is the level of police service that we receive in our rural communities. I think the chief constable is very aware of this, he understands the concerns that have been raised and I think is very keen to work with me and residents of Bedfordshire."

Mr Akinbusoye's first appearance before the Bedfordshire Police and Crime Panel - the body which holds the PCC to account - is due to take on Tuesday, June 8.

More details of his Police and Crime Plan are expected to be unveiled during the meeting.