OTTERY S first ever police enquiry clerk started work this week, as the town s Sergeant said goodbye.

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OTTERY'S first ever police enquiry clerk started work this week, as the town's Sergeant said goodbye.

Having overseen the neighbourhood policing team's move to its new Broad Street base, which was opened to the public last week, Sergeant Nick Harper ended his two and a half-years serving the town today (Monday), before becoming an Inspector in South Devon.

He said: "It's been nice to have been involved with planning of the new station, and good to see it through.

"This has been the biggest thing for the Ottery police in a long time. It started with a conversation between the mayor and I more than two years ago.

"The old office wasn't fit for purpose, but now the public will get an improved service, in a better location with a front counter.

"I'll miss my team and miss Ottery. It's a really nice community, the people here are friendly, helpful and pull together. They are very supportive of us."

The renovated Old Convent station was officially opened by local hero Lloyd Gardner and Devon's Police Commander, Chief Superintendent Jo Tennant yesterday.

Chief Superintendent Tennant said: "This is an important day for Ottery. The new police station is all about bringing policing into the community. So a building in the heart of the town couldn't be more appropriate.

New enquiry clerk Tracey Coletti will take up her role today (Monday).

Tracey, who has 11 years experience working for the police, said: "I'm looking forward to a nice change and challenge."

It will be the first time in neighbourhood beat manager PC Phil Thomas' 12 years serving the town that residents will have a "front of house" clerk. He said: "It is great news, at least now we can promise a definite time when the police office will be open.