Laurie Appleton has been appointed principal beat officer to cover for PC Victoria Cannon who is on maternity leave.

He said: “I’ve worked in Oakham and Rutland for seven years covering the whole of the county in the car.

“In my new role I will spend more time on foot patrol and dealing with community issues.”

PC Appleton, 34, moved to Rutland when his father Tim Appleton started work at Rutland Water nature reserve. He still lives in the area with his wife Jo and children Millie, six, and three-year-old Oliver.

He said: “I enjoy working in Rutland having started my career in Syston.

“I try and deal with people fairly because I am a local resident. If you are fair then it is easy to live and work in the same area. It has always been my policy that I am a police officer while I am at work and will deal with people as and when.”

PC Appleton has been charged with tackling problem areas in Uppingham that have been identified by residents. These include the use and supply of controlled drugs and speeding.

He will evaluate what progress has been made at the end of his stint in the town before coming up with another plan of action.

The plans to tackle drug use in the town include using information given by residents and regular visits to hot spot areas including Tods Piece.

Speed guns and boards will be used along Leicester, Stockerston, Ayston and Glaston roads to try and stop speeding on the way into Uppingham town centre.

PC Appleton is hoping to get some positive feedback from Uppingham residents. He said: “It will be nice to get out of the car and knock on doors and talk to people, which is the best way to get to know them.

“I’m trying to get involved in the Pub Watch scheme to tackle anti-social behaviour, and if I have a good relationship with the landlords then together we can sort out any problems.”