SUSSEX Police is bringing Eastbourne, Lewes and Wealden districts together under one overall commander.

Chief inspector Emma Brice has been district commander in Eastbourne for the past two years, while in Lewes and Wealden and will now embrace the role formerly held by Chief Inspector Rob Leet, who has moved to the local policing branch.

She is married with two children and started her police career in Bexhill-on-Sea and has since worked in Worthing, Gatwick and Brighton, holding a number of roles at police headquarters in Lewes, including Force Command and Control.

Ms Brice said: “I have thoroughly enjoyed the last two years as district commander for Eastbourne.

“It has been a pleasure working with the community and partners to keep the town safe and I am thrilled to be able to continue working with them.

"I am also delighted to be given the opportunity to be responsible for the policing of Lewes and Wealden, and I am looking forward to getting to know and work with the communities and partners in these areas.

"I have already met with some of these partners and it is clear that they are committed to community safety, my priority is to develop these partnerships and ensure that Lewes and Wealden remain safe places in which to live, to work and to visit.”

Dave Padwick, superintendent for neighbourhood policing in East Sussex, said: "I'm sure Emma’s skills and experience will help her build on the excellent work already achieved by Rob Leet in Lewes and Wealden, while continuing to expand on her own accomplishments in Eastbourne.”