Olly Martins

Policing in rural areas like Cranfield and Mid Bedfordshire is always a concern.  Bedford and Luton suck in huge resources. Check out this latest posting from the Rural Services Network about police numbers in rural areas. Last week we elected a new police and crime commissioner Olly Martins (above). He is the man to talk to. I say good luck to Olly, I voted for him but I am not under any illusions about the limitations on his role. Nor is Olly, without a doubt.

Police are taking a 20 per cent cut in funding and I'm sure it won't be long before you find a police officer or a PCSO in the National Trust guidebook. "This fully restored early 21st century public guardian is open 10 am to 4.45 pm April to October. Toilets and gift shop."

No matter what PCCs do they are going to be setting dramatically reduced budgets.

Perhaps he can keep companies like G4S, non-suppliers of security to the Olympics off the scene.  But all round it will be a tough call.