FIVE new members have joined the Hampshire Police and Crime Panel, which scrutinises, challenges, and supports the work of the Police and Crime Commissioner for Hampshire.
Panel chairman Councillor David Stewart said: "We are delighted to welcome them.
“A number of high calibre candidates put themselves forward, which made it very difficult to choose.
“The new members were picked for the blend of skills and experience they will bring, and I’m certain they will strengthen the panel."
The new independent members are Michael Coombes, a former finance director at Hampshire Constabulary and current chair of governors at Sparsholt and Andover Colleges, and Bob Purkiss MBE, a former independent co-opted member of the panel, who has experience in advocacy and complaints work
The three new members from local councils are Councillor Reg Barry, Isle of Wight Council, and former Merchant Navy ship’s carpenter, retired teacher Cllr Lynne Stagg, Portsmouth City Council, and Councillor Frank Rust, Rushmoor Borough Council and former RAF electronic engineer officer