A new borough commander is joining Bexley Police next week, when the current commander moves on to Westminster.

Chief Superintendent Jeff Boothe joins Bexley from the British Transport Police – where he has worked for 24 years - on Monday (March 2).

He replaces Peter Ayling, who moved to Bexley in October 2012 has been borough commander since March 2013.

Chief Superintendent Boothe, 50, lives in Croydon and is a public order commander, strategic firearms commander and CBRN commander.

He has worked at important events such as the Olympics and the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee.

Chief Superintendent Boothe said: “I am really looking forward to the challenge of working within the Borough of Bexley in partnership with key stakeholders and continuing to build upon the successes achieved to date."

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Mr Ayling said: "Whilst the opportunity to become borough commander of Westminster is an exciting one, there is more than a touch of sadness to be leaving Bexley.

“After two and half years we have achieved a lot and I am proud to say Bexley remains the safest London Borough and is enjoying the lowest level of burglary since proper recording began.

“My sincere thanks goes out to all who have helped me along the way, there are too many to mention."