WEST Mercia Constabulary has appointed a new advisor in a bid to forge closer links with the travelling communities.

Sergeant Allie Webster has become the force's new gipsy and traveller diversity advisor. His work will focus on developing meaningful working relationships between those communities living in and passing through the force area and partner agencies such as local authorities, education services, and housing associations.

By working closely together, the police hope to give gipsies and travellers a voice in the community and learn more about their needs and concerns.

Sgt Webster said: "I am very excited about my new role and I am keen to make a positive and lasting difference, built on trust and respect, with the gipsy and traveller communities and our partner agencies.

"Historically on a national scale the relationship between police forces and the gipsy and traveller communities has not been an easy one, but many police forces are helping to break down the barriers between these communities and the police, by appointing people to carry out a role similar to mine.

"We want to positively address gipsy and traveller issues and are eager to improve relations with everyone in these communities."

Sgt Webster has been a police officer for more than 18 years and has worked for three police services in a wide variety of roles. He transferred to West Mercia Constabulary four years ago and became the manager of the diversity training team.

His reputation and relationship with the gipsy and traveller communities was recognised in May 2006 when he was asked to speak at the national Pride Not Prejudice conference - a meeting aimed at improving links and relations between gipsies, travellers and public service partners.

As a result, the force hopes his experience in diversity issues will help to ensure gipsy and traveller communities receive a positive, fair and consistent service from the police. He will also be on hand to help front-line police officers and police staff who may need help or guidance when responding to a gipsy and traveller related query.

To contact Sgt Allie Webster for information and advice call 01905 747077.