The new Chief Constable of West Midlands Police has been out on the beat in the Black Country – meeting shoppers, traders and victims of crime.

Residents had the chance to share their views on the force with Chris Sims, former Chief Constable of Staffordshire Police, as he spent two hours out on the beat in Sedgley.

Mr Sims spent time on Saturday talking to shoppers and traders about their concerns and suggestions on how the service could be improved.

Among those sharing their views with the chief constable was Judith Cowell, who is the manager of the town’s Compton Hospice shop which has been targeted by thieves.

The 63-year-old, from Greenway, Sedgley, said the charity shop had been broken into three times in the past 18 months.

The last burglary was in June when thieves smashed their way in through the back door and stole the safe containing three days takings.

“They stole around £1,000 which is a lot for a shop like this. It was heartbreaking not just for me but for the volunteers who come and give their time,” she said.

She praised the help she had received from the Police Community Support Officers but said she was disappointed those responsible had not been caught.

Mr Sims also said a single police unit serving the whole of Dudley would improve the service for people living in the borough.

The Sedgley walkabout is one of many Mr Sims has planned across the region for the coming months.