A CANDIDATE to become Warwickshire’s next police and crime commissioner wants to see more bobbies on the beat.
Former chief superintendent David Whitehouse is calling for fewer mobile speed cameras and more visible policing in the county.
The independent candidate in next month’s election said budget cuts over the past five years had inevitably led to a reduction in the number of officers on the streets.
He said: “Local neighbourhood policing is the foundation of good community links and problem-solving, as well as a reassurance to residents.
“Often you can travel through the county and not see any visible signs of police presence, but you will find a mobile speed camera van parked in a location where you have to question its reason for being there.
“I appreciate the value of the road safety partnership and their preventative work but this particular issue causes me to question what local policing is about. Quite simply it sends the wrong message to our communities.”
The Princethorpe resident aims to reduce the number of mobile speed camera vans and support the community speedwatch scheme, run by residents who have concerns about speeding where they live.
Mr Whitehouse, who retired five years ago, served with Warwickshire Police for more than 35 years.
He told The Observer: “My years in the force mean I understand both the demands placed on the police and the costs involved in providing a sensible budget to deliver an effective and efficient force.”
He is vying to tackle rural, business and cyber-crime and encourage more recruits from ethnic minorities and has also pledged to listen to the views of the public.
He added: “As an independent candidate I am not tied to any political influence and my decision making will be solely based on the best interests of the people of Warwickshire.”
Mr Whitehouse will contest the election on May 5 against Labour candidate, Julie Jackson, Conservative representative, Philip Seccombe, Independent, Ben Twomey, Lib Dem, Nicola Davies and UKIP’s Rob Harris.
The winner will replace current police and crime commissioner Ron Ball, who has chosen to step down from the role.
