THE divisional police force in Thurrock has another new senior officer and commander.

Newly-promoted Chief Inspector Danny Barnes will take on the role of District Commander for Thurrock. His immediate predecessor was temporary Chief Inspector Leanne Archer who bridged the gap following the reassignment of CI Tony Atkin, who will now become Detective Chief Inspector for the Essex West Local Policing Area.

Recognising the succession process, CI Atkin, who had expressed a wish to remain in Thurrock, said: "Danny brings a wealth of experience. I am confident that the excellent work across prevention and investigation in Thurrock will continue to strengthen under his leadership.

"I would also like to extend my sincere congratulations to T/Ch Insp Leanne Archer. Leanne has done an outstanding job stepping into the role of Thurrock District Commander over the past three months, and her promotion to Chief Inspector — along with her posting to CMC as the Control Centre Chief Inspector — is thoroughly deserved." 

Both appointments take effect from 23 February. 

CI Atkin added: "I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to all the policing and community safety teams at Thurrock who have shown immense dedication and hard work to serve the community of Thurrock, to tackle the issues that impact them the most."