New Chief Constable announced

British Transport Police Authority (BTPA) has announced Deputy Chief Constable Andrew Trotter as the next Chief Constable of British Transport Police.

Mr Trotter has been the Deputy Chief Constable for more than five years and was appointed at the end of a rigorous selection process.

BTPA Chairman Millie Banerjee said that she is confident he will build on the transformation BTP has seen in the last eight years: “The next Chief Constable faces the challenging agenda of a difficult financial climate and increasing demands on the Force. I am confident that Andy will deliver.

“The Police Authority is looking forward to working with Andy as we take British Transport Police into the next decade.”

Chief Constable Ian Johnston said: “I am absolutely delighted that the Police Authority has been able to select Andy Trotter as the next Chief Constable of BTP.

”Andy has a vast experience of policing and in his new elevated role will bring fresh ways of continuing to improve the service the Force provides. He has shown outstanding leadership as my deputy, and I know he will be a first class Chief Constable.”

Following the announcement, DCC Trotter said:

“I am extremely honoured to have been appointed Chief Constable of British Transport Police. There have been huge improvements made to the force under the leadership of Ian Johnston over the last few years which have ensured that the benefits of a dedicated force for Britain’s railways is experienced by both passengers and staff.

“The dedication and hard work of BTP officers and staff in delivering a safe and secure railway is first class and I am proud to have been given the responsibility to lead them.

“We now face enormous challenges ahead to ensure we respond flexibly to the changing economic conditions whilst continuing to drive our performance. I look forward to working with the police authority, colleagues in the rail industry and our officers and staff to continue to deliver a specialised, dedicated policing service to Britain’s railway.”

CC Ian Johnston will remain in office until the summer. BTPA will advertise for a new Deputy Chief Constable in due course.

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Permanent Fixture for Subway NPT

A permanent base for officers has been established in the Glasgow Subway.

The dedicated office at St Enoch Subway station is part of the enhanced policing service now in place for the Subway network.

The Chief Constable met with the Neighbourhood Police team John McCrone and Jack Mitchell, who are responsible for security in the Subway's 15 stations, on board Subway trains and at the network's Broomloan headquarters. Mr Johnston also met with SPT Chief Executive Ron Culley and Subway staff during his visit.

SPT's Head of Security, Donnie Macleod, said: "It seemed sensible that the British Transport Police had their own office in the Subway.

"We have worked hard with them to improve safety on the network. For over two years two dedicated community police constables have been patrolling the Subway on a daily basis.

"Staff and passengers have welcomed their presence and have told us they feel more secure as a result."

Mr Johnston said: "We are grateful to SPT for providing a permanent station for our Subway Neighbourhood Policing team which will mean they will be able to spend even more time patrolling the network with the aim of continuing to reassure both passengers and staff."

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Flu Pandemic Advice

For the latest advice and guidance about the flu outbreak see the force intranet:

http://a00-cms/btpintranet/default.aspx?page=18335

The situation is being closely monitored across the force and any action taken will reflect the World Health Organisation (WHO) alert level and the guidance/advice issued by Health Protection Agency (HPA) and the Department of Health (DoH).  BTP will covene a Pandemic Flu Gold Group to review further options for the Force.

At present there are no warnings issued regarding large gatherings of people and as such we can expect our stations to remain busy. However, the public is concerned about the spread of the virus and may seek advice from any officers at stations across the area. If approached direct members of the public to the Government website which has all the latest relevant information.

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Aberdeen Information Sharing Protocol Signed

As the Scottish Premier League splits into the top and bottom six, the area has signed up to a formal information sharing protocol with Aberdeen football club.

The protocol allows a free flow of information, with both organisations pledging to share mutually beneficial data about individuals who are arrested or detained by BTP officers travelling to or from any match involving the club.

Chief Inspector Alex McGuire said:

“In signing this protocol we now have a mechanism of informing the club of any offenders who come to the attention of British Transport Police, if it is appropriate. This will allow the football club to take whatever action they deem appropriate to avoid any recurrence.

Aberdeen Football Club’s Operations Manager John Morgan added:

“As a family orientated football club, anything that can assist in identifying and punishing the small minority who are intent on causing trouble is something to be applauded and we are more than happy to sign up to this extremely worthwhile initiative.”

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Nicola Phillips Racing for Life

Nicola Phillips is running the Race for Life on 7 June 2009 – please be generous and sponsor her for the worthy cause.

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Body Armour Issue Dates – Urgent Reminder

In December all officers were asked to send Procurement the issue date printed on body armour plates. Procurement is waiting on the majority of officers replying. These issue dates are required to ensure when each officer is due a replacement. 

Please send responses to Donna Muir as soon as possible.

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First ScotRail Mini Monster Family Fun

It’s Mini Monster time again. First ScotRail will be hosting two fun family bike and run relay events in Scotland on Sunday 14 June 2009. All you need is a team of up to four people to run 1.5km or cycle 5km. The events in Glasgow and Aberdeen are aimed at families and friends, with entrants being encouraged to raise money for FirstGroup’s charity partner, Save the Children.

It’s a great day out and remember First ScotRail has supported and sponsored many BTP events and officers in the past.

To find out more and register your team go to www.firstmonster.com

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