OLDER people in Weymouth and Portland who want to talk to the police about community issues have a new contact.

Community worker Ken Whatley has been appointed Older Persons Advocate for the Police and Crime Commissioner for Weymouth and Portland.

Mr Whatley is well-known in the Park District for his work with the Waterside Weymouth Comm-unity Forum.

PCC Martyn Underhill formed a team of voluntary advocates to be his ‘eyes and ears’ in the community.

They were appointed for geographical areas, or for groups such as the older population or the Polish community, to support his work on community issues.

Mr Underhill said the advocates would play a ‘pivotal role’ in helping to cut crime and anti-social behaviour by feeding back on policing issues.

Mr Whatley said: “I have many years of working within the community in the Park District and understand that older people are ill at ease with contacting the police with fear of reprisals, so I am happy to act as a go-between in complete confidence.

“I can also meet older persons at their local community centre by appointment, or at police meetings in their neighbourhoods.”

He added: “The PCC Martyn Underhill cannot be everywhere so I am his eyes and ears in the area.

“I am happy to attend any meetings for older persons and visit residential homes or flats to find out what concerns residents and to report directly back.

“I can assure you your concerns will be taken into consideration.”

To contact Mr Whatley call 07887 825001 or email ken.whatley@dorset.pnn.police.uk