WHEN new police chief Patrick Rice arrived in the island in August he explained that he had a ‘road map’ for where he wanted to take policing.

Today, after five months assessing the lay of the land, some of the details of that map have been filled in – and there is much for islanders to like.

Most importantly, it is clear that this period of assessment has sought to identify what it is that islanders want from their force.

In a community where crime and criminals are thankfully still on the back foot it is vital to address the areas which trouble islanders on a daily basis, not focus solely on more serious crimes.

Furthermore, it is important in an island community such as Guernsey that its unique environment is accepted and worked around. There is little sense attempting to impose a structure designed for tough inner-city areas in the UK or quiet rural backwaters.

The interview published today on pages four and five of the Press shows that this is well understood.

Neighbourhood policing is given fresh impetus with a team dedicated to tackling anti-social behaviour such as criminal damage and graffiti.

Their brief will include talking to parish officials and engaging at a genuine grassroots level.

It may not be the most high-profile means of fighting crime but it is invaluable in cultivating an attitude that all crime matters and should be resisted.

Another bugbear, the battle against speeding, is also given a boost with the welcome return of officers on motorbikes.

They are an important weapon in the battle against youths who get their kicks from treating the island as a racetrack.

As was seen just a few weeks ago in a disturbing court case, uncontrolled speeding has the potential to ruin lives and is often far more serious than simply ‘doing 35’ in a 25 zone.

Also welcome is the drive to place more officers on the frontline. To remain in budget this will mean shifting officers from less useful areas and tough decisions will be needed. But if that makes police more visible on the streets – particularly at night – then it is a laudable ambition.