SUPERINTENDENT David Burgess has been appointed as the new head of the Dorset Police Community Safety Department.

Supt Burgess had been the Eastern Divisional Commander, based at Ferndown, since 1997 - where he saw the new divisional headquarters built and the launch of the successful community support units.

The former head of community safety, Supt Tony Nott, has been seconded to the United Nations inter-national police task force in Bosnia.

Supt Burgess began his career with Dorset Police in 1975, serving at various stations in Bournemouth including six years with CID.

In 1984 he was promoted to sergeant, undertaking roles as custody and community safety officer. Promotion to inspector came in 1987 when he became section commander for the then Ferndown/ Wimborne section.

In 1990, he was posted to the operations department at headquarters, Winfrith. Promotion to superintendent in 1995 meant a move back to Bournemouth as operations manager. He has received four commendations in his career.

Supt Burgess said his new role, as head of community safety, based at headquarters, will provide both challenges and opportunities: "I look forward to building on the very positive partnership work that Dorset Police enjoys with the local authorities and the many other agencies within the county. There remain many challenges for the Crime and Disorder Partnerships, in particular to reduce the fear of crime, and the reassurance of the public by high visibility police patrols.

"Dorset Police is committed to address both these areas and maintain Dorset as one of the safest areas in the country," he added.

He has been regional chairman of the International Police Association for four years.

Supt Lynn Hart becomes the new Eastern Divisional Commander.