BARTON's new police sergeant has vowed to continue the "good work" of the neighbourhood force as he finds his feet on the estate.

David Keith, who recently joined with the neighbourhood team, said he is enjoying his new role and has found many members of the community welcoming.

In his first interview with the Oxford Mail, the former Met police officer, said he had a "good feeling" about working in Barton.

Mr Keith added: "It's very much an individual community here. Everyone knowns everyone which is quite nice.

"Community policing is about finding out what affects the people you serve.

"If you can work with other agencies to help people as well it can help prevent long-term problems.

"It's about looking at the bigger picture.

"I've got a really good feel about the place so far and I've met some friendly people. It's been really welcoming.

The sergeant, who was based in Banbury ahead of his move to Oxford, is responsible for covering the Barton, Sandhills and Risinghurst estates.

He joins an experienced team of two Police Constables and four PCSOs.

And Mr Keith said his priorities were to continue the work of Sergeant Williams, by continuing to crack down on anti-social behaviour and drug crimes as well as Thames Valley Police's aims of tackling assault, child sexual exploitation and burglaries.

He added: "One thing we have started to hear is people are having to go elsewhere to get access to illegal drugs which for the community here is brilliant.

"I know that was one of the thing Martyn and the team here have worked hard on for a long time."

The police neighbourhood boss also called for members of the community to come forward and become special constables on the estate.

He added: "I was a special constable and I feel Barton would be a great environment for people to gain experience and gain confidence."

Barton community association secretary Sue Holden said she hoped sergeant Keith would carrying on the good work being done by the neighbourhood team.

The 67-year-old, who used to run Holden's News in Underhill Circus, added: "I think he has got a real positive attitude towards Barton and I am sure he will follow in the footsteps of Martyn and make a good impression.

"He seems like a lovely guy. I'm sure he will take his own approach to dealing with crime in the community and continue the good work which the neighbourhood police force has been doing over the years."