Meet the new head of policing across Harborough - who has returned to his childhood grassroots

A new senior police officer has taken over as the head of policing across Harborough as he returns to his childhood grassroots.

Insp Jim Purdie has become the new Neighbourhood Policing Area (NPA) Commander for Harborough and Wigston – replacing Insp Siobhan Gorman.

Insp Purdie took over the reins today (Monday) and said he is looking forward to working in the area where he grew up.

He is starting in his new role as Insp Gorman thanked everyone who has supported her here since 2018 – hailing her three-year stint in Harborough as the “highlight of my career”.

Insp Purdie, a former firearms officer, joined Leicestershire Police in 2002.

The highly-experienced policeman has worked in frontline response, armed policing, training, in the force’s control room, custody and neighbourhood policing.

Insp Purdie’s most recent role has been as a Tactical Dogs and Firearms Unit Commander.

“I have already begun to meet partners and have received a very warm welcome.

“I am now really looking forward to getting to know and working with the community in the area where I grew up and where I have lots of happy memories,” said Insp Purdie.

“I am excited to be working with the public and partners and finding out what really matters to the local community.

“My thanks do go to Insp Gorman who has done an excellent job as NPA Commander and I wish her well in her new role.”

Insp Gorman, 43, will be taking up a new role as chief inspector in the force’s Specialist Support Directorate.

Speaking about the NPA Commander role based in Market Harborough she said: “As a young police constable, my dream job in the police was to be a Neighbourhood Policing Area Commander.

“I will never forget the phone call from Deputy Chief Constable Nixon saying I was being promoted into the role of Neighbourhood Commander back in 2018.

“I was elated, chuffed, excited, over the moon and more words besides!

“I always wanted to have my own neighbourhood area - to work with the community, to lead a team and make a real difference,” said Insp Gorman.

“I was indeed right, this is the best role in Leicestershire Police.

“I will look back with very fond memories.

“I have met some truly inspirational people, officers and support staff - people dedicated to making their neighbourhoods and the lives of others better.

“In 2020, the policing model changed and the Covid pandemic took hold,” said the mum-of-two.

“They were huge challenges.

“The community rallied around us during the pandemic which was truly phenomenal.

“I will never forget their acts of kindness and support.

“I cannot thank the team enough for their support and trust in my leadership.

“We have tackled County Lines, drug offences, car key burglaries, vulnerability, rural crime, catalytic converter theft, motor vehicle theft, the opening of the night time economy and anti-social behaviour.

“We have worked hard with the community bringing volunteers, key community people and partners together to address community issues. “It’s not been easy but we have made huge progress,” added Insp Gorman.

“Listening and working with the community is vital.

“We have been on this journey together.

“This has been the highlight of my career so far. I am lucky to have had a chance in such a unique and privileged role which I now pass on to Insp Purdie.

“I wish him and all of the team, the very best of luck.

“Thank you.”