AFTER FIVE and a half years service, the well-loved and respected neighbourhood sergeant of Harpenden is off to pastures new.

Sergeant Lewis Ducket leaves this Friday to join the Change Management Team at police headquarters in Welwyn Garden City, but leaves Harpenden with a pristine record that has seen crime in the town reduced year on year for the last five years.

In an emotional farewell gathering last Friday, Lewis was joined by colleagues and many from the local community who have worked alongside the sergeant since he became the neighbourhood sergeant in August 2005. Gifts were presented from local councillors, who were full of praise for the changes Lewis had made to the town and surrounding villages.

In his time as sergeant, two police offices have opened in Redbourn and Wheathampstead, Pub Watch and Farm Watch have been set up, and the neighbourhood team has conducted a number of proactive operations to deal with emerging issues, such as burglary.

Lewis, who joined Herts Police in 2001, said: “I have really enjoyed every minute of my five-and-a-half years as neighbourhood sergeant for Harpenden and villages, and all the challenges this role presents.

“I have had the privilege of working with a fantastic team who have delivered some great results by helping to reduce crime, anti-social behaviour and improve the quality of life for people locally.

“I have also had the good fortune and support of working with a wide range of people, from volunteer groups to businesses to councils and schools, who have contributed to the team’s success.”

He added: “I am really sad to be leaving and if I could start the five years all over again, I would. I leave a dedicated, enthusiastic and committed team of people who I know will continue to deliver an excellent service to the community.”