MOTORBIKE enthusiast James Twyford is this week getting up to speed with his new role as a neighbourhood beat manager in Devizes.

PC Twyford, 27, who joined the force straight from school as a Special in Melksham in 2006, is looking forward to getting to know the community in the town and surrounding villages.

He said: "I didn't know Devizes well before I arrived but it seems like a very friendly place. I like to getting to know people and want to be approachable."

He plans to get a feel for the town and any issues before putting himself up for questioning by town and parish councillorss but is looking forward to meeting them.

He wants to spend as much time as possible out on the beat so people can see him and approach him. He said: "On my first day I spent quite a bit of time walking around getting to know the small streets in the town centre.

"For me a lot of the job is about prevention rather than resolution after something happens so it is good to be seen."

PC Tywford grew up in Bradford on Avon and joined the Specials after leaving St Laurence School. He said: "It was meant to just be a gap year job but I enjoyed it so much I decided to apply for a full-time role."

He did his training at police headquarters in Devizes in 2008 and was then posted to Chippenham. He said: "At the time I wanted to go to Trowbridge but I think in many ways it was better to go to Chippenham as I wasn't having to come face to face with people from school when I was out on patrol at night.

"That might have been difficult but by the time I was posted to Trowbridge many of my friends had gone away to university so it has not been an issue."

He now lives in west Wiltshire with his partner who works as a civilian for the police force. His hobbies include motorbike riding and woodwork.

He said: "I have a big bike and really enjoy riding it but I don't think traffic policing is for me. I prefer to keep the motorbiking as a hobby."

He has passed his sergeant's examinations and while in Trowbridge spent a year as an acting sergeant. He now hopes to move up the ranks when a permanent position becomes available.