THE newly appointed Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner for North Yorkshire and the city of York has said he will act as a “voice for the community”.

Philip Allott took over the role on Thursday, following his election after the vote two weeks ago.

He assumed oversight of North Yorkshire Police and North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service at midnight, taking over from Julia Mulligan - who has stepped down after nine years in the role.

Mr Allott said: “We live in the most beautiful part of the world, and it should be a place where everyone is safe and feels safe.

“Whether it is violence against women and girls, road safety or anti-social behaviour, county lines drug dealing or burglary, fire safety, illegal hunting or theft of machinery, all these issues and many more it will be addressed within my Police, Crime and Fire Plan.

“I will be a voice for the community, ensure police and fire leaders are supported but challenged to be the best they can, and stand up for where we live and the brave police officers, firefighters and police and fire staff who work so hard to protect us every day.

“Already this week, I have had the chance to discuss and agree my outline plans with the two Chief Officers and these will now be developed by me and my office, in consultation and partnership North Yorkshire Police, North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service and you, residents of North Yorkshire and York.

“I promise to always be on the side of victims, and residents and businesses across North Yorkshire and York who want to be safe and feel safe. It is time to get moving and get started on your priorities which are now my priorities.”

Mr Allott was elected after securing a total of 83,737 first and second preference votes. Labour candidate Alison Hume was in second place with 53,442 votes.