I was informed last week that I will be moving from my current post to take up the role of local area commander (LAC) for West Lothian.

This move will not happen until the start of April on the retiral of the current postholder.

My post as LAC for East Lothian will be advertised over the next period of time to allow for a suitable candidate to be identified.

Police Inspector Dougie Wardell, who many of you will know, will remain as the deputy LAC for the foreseeable future to ensure continuity in terms of community policing.

I have really enjoyed my time in East Lothian as I can see every day the benefits of effective partnership working in building stronger and more resilient communities.

I have also witnessed the passion and commitment from the local policing teams who frequently go above and beyond to serve the local community in which the majority of them both work and live.

I was in no hurry to move on from this post.

But I have learnt over the last 26-plus years of my police career that change is constant and can bring with it both opportunities and challenges.

I am proud of the achievements of local officers over the last 12 months who have worked selflessly to provide a high quality of service to local people with a focus on those most vulnerable in our society.

Thank you very much for your support to myself and the wider policing team in East Lothian and I wish you all the best for the year ahead.

I will be very much involved in my current role until the end of March and East Lothian very much remains my focus on a day-to-day basis.