New island sergeant Clare Neilson has had a month to settle in to her new role as the head of policing on the island and is now ready to use her years of experience to help maintain and improve policing on Arran.
Clare previously worked as a sergeant in the control room in Govan and has spent the majority of her nine-year police career working in communities throughout Glasgow.
Serving with Police Scotland is something that Clare has always wanted to do as she comes from a family of serving police officers, including her father and her brother.
Returning to Arran is another goal fulfilled for Clare who served as a summer secondee on the island in 2019 and who recalls being immensely sad to leave.
Policing takes up most of her time but when not working she can be found out walking in the forests, footpaths and hills of Arran. Usually with her two cocker spaniels named Gary and Rory.
She is a fervent dog-lover and enjoys competing with Gary and Rory at agility events on the mainland.
Another passion is Clare’s dedication to community policing. Clare told the Banner: “When the opportunity arose to fill the vacancy left by Sergeant Kevin Blackley I immediately applied for the post.
“My experience of working on Arran in 2019 was one of the highlights of my career and so I am delighted to be able to help maintain and advance the high standards set by my predecessors.
“Community policing is particularity effective on Arran as we have the support of the community and all of our collaborative work, such as with the RNLI, Arran Mountain Rescue Team and HM Coastguard, can all make a direct and lasting impact.
“I very much look forward to working with, and for the community, and I look forward to meeting more of the people who are doing wonderful things for the island.”
Clare has a friendly disposition and is inviting anyone who has any concerns, queries, or even just wanting to say hello, to get in touch.
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