New police chief

NEW Seahaven Division police inspector Mark Huff has pledged to make a big impact in Seaford, Newhaven, Peacehaven and Telscombe.

Insp Huff, who replaces outgoing Insp Ron Preddy, joined the Seahaven Community Problem Solving team last week, leaving his post as a response inspector in Lewes and Eastbourne.

As a division inspector he was looking forward to focusing on his new beat.

'This job gives me the opportunity to make a bigger impact in a smaller area, to make a difference in the community. Covering a huge area in response there was less of an opportunity to see things through. Here I can see things through and make a difference.

The inspector s 20 years experience on the force started with the Metropolitan Police. He joined Sussex Police in 1988 and lives in Brighton with his wife, 11-year-old daughter and eight-year-old son.

Insp Huff outlined his plans for his first days in the job. 'I will gather an overall picture of what is happening as well as what people s concerns are. I will carry on looking at priority crimes burglary, violent crime and vehicle crime, and meet with community leaders as soon as possible to forge contacts in the area.

Insp Huff will be joined by three other response team officers at Newhaven.

Sgt Dave Kemp replaces Sgt Nick Chrusciel who has transferred to an administrative post at the Seaford incident management centre.

PCs Graham Ross and Jo Benton, bring the total of PCs for Newhaven and Peacehaven to six.

Four constables will remain based at Seaford with Sgt Roger Fry.

Outgoing Inspector Ron Preddy, who leaves after 15 months, is taking up a new job with the Sussex Police Professional Standards Department in Lewes.

He said: 'I have enjoyed my time here and meet a lot of interesting people. I am pleased with the success we have had and wish Mark every success.