AS a Royal Marine he travelled the world, but now Mick Fletcher is settling down to life as a police community support officer in Burnley.

Mick, 27, has joined the neighbourhood policing team in Bank Hall, bolstering resources and increasing the high visibility police presence and assistance available to residents.

He is working alongside existing staff. including community beat manager PC Dave Clark, PCSO Gerry Woods and five neighbourhood response officers.

Mick, said on his change of career: "I did a lot of travel-ling in my previous career and I really enjoyed it but I felt the time had come to settle down and find a job with prospects which offered me a bit more stability.

"The role of PCSO seemed to fit the bill and so far, I've certainly no complaints.

"The residents I've met to date have been very welcoming, as have the other officers in my neighbourhood policing team.

"I'm enjoying my new career and looking forward to helping the local community combat some of the problems they are experiencing, particularly with regards to anti-social behaviour and drugs."

Old habits die hard for the former Marine, however, who enjoys keeping fit by going walking and to the gym when he is not working.

PCSO Fletcher, who lives in Rossendale, can be contacted on 07944 501992.