HEREFORDSHIRE Community Safety and Drugs Partnership has a new leadership team.

Geoff Hughes, Herefordshire Council's director of adult and community services, has been appointed chairman.

He takes over from Sue Fiennes, director of children's services, who has now retired from the authority.

Chief Supt Mark Turner, of West Mercia Police, has been appointed as vice-chairman.

The Community Safety and Drugs Partnership is a statutory multi-agency partnership which was set up to tackle community safety and drug issues across Herefordshire.

Mr Hughes said: "I am delighted to take over as chairman of the partnership and will be aiming to build on the good work which has already been started.

"We are fortunate in having a low crime rate in Herefordshire but we cannot afford to be complacent and will be working hard to tackle the root causes of crime and build community confidence," he added.

Chief Supt Mark Turner said: "I am delighted Geoff has agreed to be chairman and I look forward to working with him.

"While the police have a key duty to reduce and detect crime, it has been proven that by working together, we can achieve safer and stronger communities, addressing crime, disorder, anti-social behaviour and drug misuse."

Current priorities are to address youth issues, alcohol-related crime and disorder, anti-social behaviour, domestic violence, drug-related offending, drug treatment, offender management and road safety.

Current activities include educational and prevention campaigns, diversionary programmes, CCTV and targeted work with offenders and drug users.

The team, based at Herefordshire Council's offices in Plough Lane, can be contacted at communitysafety@herefordshire.gov.uk or by calling 01432 383523.