Rob Hendra has retired from being the Police Community Support Officer for Paulton and Peasedown St John after nine years, with a further two years of service covering Midsomer Norton.

Rob spoke of his time serving the community: “I have so many happy memories from my time in Paulton. People in Paulton have been really amazing, and I’m sorry to be leaving but it is the right time to move on to my next challenge.”

Paulton Councillors Liz Hardman and Grant Johnson presented Rob with a gift on Wednesday, 25th October to thank him for his service to Paulton and the wider community.

Cllr Hardman said, “It’s been a real pleasure working with Rob for the past nine years. He’s always been committed to supporting our community. He will be much missed.” Cllr Johnson added, “Everyone I’ve spoken to over the years have always expressed such a fondness for Rob and the dedication that he brought to policing in our local community. He approached the role with openness and such a large smile that made residents feel at ease – he really was an asset to our village, and I will miss his regular contributions to our village magazine.”

Since Rob has stepped down, a familiar face to a lot of football fans has joined the local policing team in Paulton and Peasedown St John with the addition of ex-referee Paul Thatcher.

Liz Hardman said: “We are fortunate in having a replacement for Rob.

“Paul Thatcher is our new PCSO, and he will be holding surgeries on the first Wednesday of every month from 11am to 12pm in the Paulton Hub Library. He will be joined by the new Neighbourhood Constable, Kieran Cox.

“Rob leaves the police service for a career in criminology lecturing, to college students.

We wish him all the best in his new career.”