BIDFORD residents can look forward to a helping hand in the battle against antisocial behaviour with the appointment of a new permanent police officer.

Pc Doug Johnson will replace Pc Pete Gateley, who has retired.

His work in the village will be supported by Community Support Officer Martin Sandford.

Parish council clerk Elisabeth Uggerloese said the council had been assured extra attention would be paid in the evening to try to cut the incidents of antisocial behaviour.