THE last police sergeant to be based in Walton says the officers on his former patch are “first-class”.

Sgt Pete Gerard led the police team in Frinton and Walton for more than five years.

His departure to Clacton leaves the area without a dedicated sergeant, although it will be overseen by Sgt Paul Gale, based in Harwich.

But Sgt Gerard said he had left Frinton and Walton in good hands.

He said: “Securing my posting to Walton police station in August 2009 provided me with an opportunity to broaden my skills and manage a particular area.

“Walton and Frinton had many challenges for policing during that time and I was able to work with the highly motivated councillors, local residents and their representative associations to overcome them.

“We saw a massive reduction in antisocial behaviour and delivered some excellent initiatives around youth engagement to divert them from crime.

“The officers at Walton are first-class and it was a pleasure to work with them.

“Their knowledge of the area has enabled us to keep on top of crime and actually be pivotal in locating suspects for murder and other serious crimes.”

He added: “Moving on is always inevitable in the police service. I expect my role at Clacton will provide some more challenges which I am looking forward to.

“I may well still be calling on some of the excellent contacts made in Frinton and Walton to assist me.”