Helston has welcomed a new police community support officer who will cover the town centre.

Mark Rogers, 26, takes over from PCSO Paul Whitford, who has moved to the Helston North team alongside PC Richard Wearne.

This is Mark’s first police role, having only joined the force four weeks ago.

He said: “I’ve lived in Helston all my life and worked in Helston all my life. It’s just something I’ve always wanted to do since I was really young.”

Having worked for Tesco and Outback Trading, Mark grabbed the opportunity to join and is now looking forward to working for the community in which he grew up.

He is being mentored by PCSO Beth Pascoe, overseen by WPC Anne Butcher.

Mark already has some experience in working for the services, having progressed from seven years as a cadet with Helston Air Cadets to being an instructor.

“That’s what spurred the interest in the public services. We did loads of community engagements and public events, and I talked to a number of police officers during my time there,” he explained.

He added: “One of things I like is the variety of work. You just don’t know what’s going to happen; every day will be different. That’s a big thing that appealed to me.”

Last week’s Freedom of the Town parade with RNAS Culdrose was the first civic event he has been involved in.

WPC Butcher said: “He’s settled in very well, we’re really pleased. Paul and Beth have worked together for several years and it’s big shoes to fill, but he’s doing really well.”

Mark has to complete intensive training criteria within a set time, giving him a broad experience of what the job entails.

“I’m learning off Beth’s experience and the way she deals with the jobs,” he said.