THURROCK'S new police chief has pledged to work closely with local people in a bid to crack crime in the borough.

Chief Supt Simon Coxall, 46, has been promoted to his new role from his current position of Director of Investigations at Thurrock CID.

The 46-year-old father-of-two is set to take over command in Thurrock from Chief Supt Terry Sheern, who is moving to a new role at Essex Police headquarters.

Chief Supt Coxall's CID responsibilities included investigating cold cases - the re-examination of unsolved serious crimes committed many years ago - and the consequent arrest of many criminals who thought they had avoided detection. Mr Coxall, who has served in Thurrock as both a uniform Sergeant and Inspector, is looking forward to taking over his new role.

He said: "There is a danger that we have made policing too complex.

"It is about thorough investigation, catching criminals and keeping the streets safe. Success demands public support and I look forward to working with the people of Thurrock.

"They need to have the confidence to report matters to the police and be willing to give evidence. We can then do our part in bringing offenders to justice."

Mr Coxall was educated at Bancroft's School, in Woodford Green, before studying history and politics at the University of London.

His interests include cricket, chess, classical music and reading, and is passionate about history and archaeology.