A neighbourhood inspector who has served the community for more than 30 years has retired from duty.

Neighbourhood Inspector John Tadman is leaving Mole Valley after 31 years with Surrey Police, where he held a variety of roles during his career.

He started as a local officer pounding the beat in Redhill, Reigate and Horley, moved up to be a detective in Reigate CID for 10 years, part of the highly trained firearms and VIP protection team, and moved back to Mole Valley to become a Neighbourhood Inspector.

Inspector Tadman said: “I have thoroughly enjoyed my career with Surrey Police and am retiring after 31-years with the Force. I have been fortunate enough to hold a variety of roles although I have gone full-circle and end my career where it began working in neighbourhood policing.

“During my three years as Neighbourhood Inspector in Mole Valley I have been lucky enough to work with some excellent Sergeants and officers all of whom are dedicated and hard working. I have also worked with some lovely people at our partner agencies including local councillors, county councillors and Mole Valley Housing Association, to name but a few. By having such a strong partnership ethos we have all worked extremely well together over the years to maintain low levels of crime in Mole Valley.”

Taking over the role as Mole Valley Neighbourhood Inspector is Terri Poulton who has worked with Surrey Police for 12 and a half years. She lives in Mole Valley along with her partner and four-year-old daughter.

She said: “I would like to thank John for all his hard work and for working with me during our transitional hand-over period. John is clearly committed to this community and has gone the extra mile to make sure that I have the tools and contacts I need to hit the ground running.”

Inspector Tadman’s last day in Mole Valley was Friday, June 18.