A POLICEMAN from Penwortham has been chosen to lead Lancashire Constabulary's branch of the Police Federation.

Steve Edwards, who has more than 20 years' experience in the force, has been elected chairman of the group, following a short period as vice-chairman.

And one of the first things he wants to change is the new attendance policy.

Steve wants to ensure that officers aren't worried about getting a poor attendance record under the new scheme.

He said: "I will not be making any drastic changes overnight. I'm here to listen and learn and plan ahead, hoping to continue to raise the Federation's profile while looking at a number of other issues, the most important of which concern welfare.

"But the attendance policy needs reviewing. My main concern is that it has got to the stage where officers who are genuinely sick are taking leave, or re-rostered days to cover sick leave because they are worried the absence will show up badly on their attendance record, which is totally unacceptable."

The cricket and Wigan Warriors fan is also keen to see the force's communications continue to improve. Steve started as a cadet in 1976 with twin brother Andy -- Lancashire's Crimestoppers co-ordinator.

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