Extra Local Bobbies Recruited To Boost Rural Policing On The Isle Of Wight

Additional Local Bobbies have been recruited by Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary to improve police visibility in rural communities – including on the Isle of Wight.

The new officers will soon be based in rural areas across the county, with placements confirmed for Winchester, Alton, Basingstoke, Hart, the New Forest, Liss and the Isle of Wight.

The move follows a pledge from Police and Crime Commissioner Donna Jones to expand her Local Bobby scheme from 99 to 114 officers.

Launched in January 2024, the scheme ensures every community has a named and contactable local officer.

It has since played a key role in tackling anti-social behaviour and repeat crime, earning national recognition.

Local Bobbies in Havant received an award for addressing persistent town centre issues, while similar work helped reduce anti-social behaviour along Southsea seafront last summer.

The scheme was later adopted by the government as the national model for neighbourhood policing in England and Wales.

Inspectors have praised Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary for strengthening ties between officers and residents, highlighting the scheme’s success in the force’s latest performance assessment.

Donna Jones said the expansion is about making sure rural communities feel properly supported:

“Residents in rural areas have told me they want to see their police officers and be able to contact them easily.

“The Local Bobby model works, which is why we are bringing that same visible presence to communities that have felt overlooked.

“The extra officers will soon be in place across the countryside on the Isle of Wight and beyond.

"I want everyone to know who their Local Bobby is and how to get in touch with them.”

The Commissioner says she plans to continue growing the scheme further in 2026.