A POLICE officer pounding the Pendle beat has turned his back on the traditional bike to get around.

For the latest recruit responsible for policing in Barrowford and Western Parishes will be taking the bus to get round his rural beat more easily.

Police community support officer (PCSO) Neil Wallin will be hoping on and off the Pendle Wayfarer service, making it easier for him to cover his patch.

It is also hoped the move will allow more people to share their concerns with officers.

PCSO Wallin, who has spent most of his life in Melbourne, Australia, wants people to say "G'day" if they see him on services.

He said: "I'm keen to meet as many people as I can and travelling by bus is a great way to do that.

"It's also a good way to find out more about local concerns and to help prevent problems on local bus services."

PCSO Wallin, who was born in England, returned home to start his job earlier this year.

He is working alongside other officers including community beat manager PC Julie Eyre.

As well as Barrowford he patrols Pendleside's villages including Fence, Roughlee, Barley and Higherford.

Susan Buckley, of Lancashire County Council which runs the Wayfarer services, said any on-duty officer in uniform could use the service to get round the area.

She added: "It is good, it's different and it gets the local bobby out and about round their beat.

"It is reassuring for the local community and we back it to the hilt.

"It takes an awful lot of effort to get round rural areas like this and this should make it easier for them."

PCSO Wallin can be contacted on 07903 979008.