THE New Forest has welcomed a new district commander with nearly three decades of policing experience.

Chief inspector Scott Johnson replaces Chief inspector Nick Marsden, who has also moved on to a new role within the force.

Scott joins the New Forest from the Basingstoke and Deane district, where he had been district commander since May 2022.

Chief inspector Johnson stepped into the world of policing 27 years ago, beginning his career in Southampton in 1997.

He said: “I’m delighted to be taking over as New Forest District Commander.

“While this is one of the most beautiful and picturesque parts of the county and country to work in, I also understand the unique policing challenges we face here, in a large rural area.

“Although only in my third week, I can already assure you all that my dedicated teams and officers will be continuing to work extremely hard to address and tackle the issues and crimes affecting you in your communities."