Police in New Malden moved a step closer to the local community on Friday, September 11, when two safer neighbourhood teams moved into their new patrol office in Malden Road.

Members of the St James and Old Malden teams, who had previously been based as far away as Surbiton, took a first look around their new base after a ribbon-cutting ceremony by mayor of Kingston Councillor Ian McDonald.

Although it has no front counter, the office features a meeting room for residents to discuss issues with officers, as well as placing the teams into the heart of the town.

Inspector Julian Hagley said: “Opening this safer neighbourhoods base is a great step forward for the policing of St James and Old Malden wards, bringing them far closer to the ward they serve and thus reducing their travelling time.

“Having a team dedicated to the local community, who understand the issues the community face and knowing that they are located within easy access of the residents and businesses that live and work here is great news.'

“In locating a safer neighbourhoods team at Malden Road we are ensuring that the teams are located right at the heart of the community.”

Get your events featured online at kingstonguardian.co.uk/news