There's a new face pounding the beat in Sheerness.

Sgt Stefan Martin joined Kent Police when he was 19 and spent 10 years working in Ashford as a police officer before being transferred to the Mid Kent area on promotion to Sergeant.

From there, he worked as a section officer and also in custody.

Sgt Martin says he’s looking forward to the new challenge of being a neighbourhood sergeant as part of the Island Neighbourhood Team.

He said: “When I heard about the role of neighbourhood Sergeant becoming available on the Island it really appealed to me.

“By changing roles to work within a neighbourhood team, it means I have more time to resolve issues within the community and work with partner agencies to come up with the best solutions to any problems.

“My vision is to make sure everyone who has contact with the Island Neighbourhood Team has the confidence that we will deal with their issues and update them on the action we have taken.

“I also want people to come and talk to us. If you’re suffering from any issues that the police can help with, tell us. “

Sgt Martin replaces Sgt Robin Lavender who has moved to a role within custody.

• To contact the Island Neighbourhood Team call 01795 584165.