Thanks to all for support over the years

Over the last three years or so my colleagues and I have used this column to highlight developments in Police Scotland, provide personal and generic safety advice and successfully appeal to the community to assist in the prevention and detection of crime.

This week I would like to take this opportunity to thank my staff, elected members and community for the support they have provided over this period.

This will be the last time I write this column as I move on to pastures new, with a role in The Lothians and Scottish Borders.

I have thoroughly enjoyed my time as Area Commander for Hamilton and Clydesdale.

Throughout this period, I have seen changes in how we police our community, from the introduction of a new policing model, such as the return of Local Policing Team staff to Larkhall, and the introduction of Local Problem Solving staff dedicated to individual wards, increasing visibility and accessibility to the community.

With the assistance of my staff we have developed numerous protocols such as those designed to expedite missing person enquiries focussed on the safe return of vulnerable persons and reducing demand on ourselves.

We have developed excellent working relationships with partner agencies, jointly focussing on reducing repeat offending and supporting the most vulnerable members of the community.

Throughout this time I have found partners, the community and my staff approaching difficult situations with professionalism and pride, dedicated to keeping our communities safe.

I would like to formally thank all those involved for their continued assistance during this period, which I know will be extended to my successor.

As always I would also like to take this opportunity to use this column to appeal for information and witnesses to assist in the detection of crimes that have occurred in our community.

In the early hours of August 14 two garden sheds were destroyed by fire in Brankholm Brae, Hamilton. It appears this was a deliberate act and could easily have resulted in casualties, dependant on what was being stored within the buildings.

On a positive note, two 16-year-old males have this week been arrested for an alleged theft of a car in Bourne Street, Hamilton.

Police reacting to a call from members of the public found the males allegedly attempting to steal the car, in possession of a weapon and a quantity of drugs.

Both have now been reported to the Procurator Fiscal.

If you have any information you feel should be reported or information on any of the crimes previously detailed please contact the police using 101, or via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Throughout this period, I have seen changes in how we police our community