A NEW inspector has been announced for Rossendale East -- Inspector David Robinson.

Mr Robinson has been in the force since 1987 and the former training instructor was awarded a commendation for bravery after tackling two violent offenders carrying out a robbery in Wheelton in 1998.

Mr Robinson has replaced Mick Marren who was recently promoted to Chief Inspector in charge of uniformed operations at Pennine Divisions headquarters in Burnley. His area covers Bacup, Stacksteads and Waterfoot.

Mr Robinson was at the road policing unit at Chorley immediately before his appointment and he has worked in Blackburn and the police training centre in Warrington.

He said: "I am delighted to be heading up the team at Rossendale East.

"I know that Mick and his officers have done an excellent job to date and I hope that we can continue to build on that good work and drive down crime.

"Like the rest of the Pennine team, I am committed to delivering a high quality of service to local residents. I am particularly looking forward to working in partnership with other local organizations in a bid to make the Valley an even safer place for those who live and work here."

Mr Robinson , 36, lives in Chorley with his wife and two children. When he is not working he enjoys reading, keeping fit and martial arts.