I AM very happy to introduce Chief Inspector Emma Richards to the borough of Harrow.

Chief Inspector Richards takes over the role of operations from Chief Inspector Gary Warby, who is now in charge of Harrow’s neighbourhood policing teams.

Chief Inspector Richards has transferred to us with over 25 years of policing experience. She will be a valuable asset to our borough and will contribute highly to ensuring we become the safest borough in London.

n Distraction burglary, also known as artifice burglary, is a thoroughly cynical and despicable type of crime. Victims tend to find they have had their valuables stolen, in many cases, some time after the offence has actually been committed. The offenders are often referred to as bogus callers, they are highly organised and operate under an array of identities.

In most cases legitimate callers will carry ID and relevant paperwork so ensure you ask for this before you let any unknown person into your home. If you are not expecting a visit at your door, ring the company they represent before letting them into your home.

It is useful to call these numbers to protect yourself from becoming a victim of this type of crime:

n Consumer direct: 0845 04 05 06 for reputable traders in your area.

n Energy suppliers: 0800 33 66 99 to set up a personal password system for gas and electricity staff to use when they call to your house.

n I was extremely privileged to attend the Battle of Britain service of thanksgiving on Sunday, September 8, at St John the Evangelist Church, Stanmore.

The service was supported by the Representative Deputy Lieutenant, John Purnell.

The service marked the remarkable victory and loss of life by RAF pilots and aircrew during the Battle of Britain in 1940 and was an occasion to mark the nation’s gratitude for the service and sacrifice of those who took part in this critical phase of the Second World War.

The Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall visited Bentley Priory on September 12, which was the headquarters of Fighter Command during the battle.

Prince Charles, who is patron of the Bentley Priory Battle of Britain Trust, opened the museum at the mansion house. He also unveiled the bust of Air Chief Marshal Hugh Dowding, who led RAF Fighter Command during the battle of Britain.

Harrow police were extremely proud to be a part of this day and it was a fantastic sight to see the flyover of a Spitfire and a Hurricane as the Prince of Wales gave his speech in the presence of 10 veterans of the air and eight women who assisted in the filter room during the battle.

n Good work by my officers: On September 2, Frazer Stent, 27, of Courtenay Avenue, Harrow, was arrested and later charged with burglary. He was detained by Harrow officers called to Boxtree Lane, Harrow, after reports stated a man was trying to break into a house.

Harrow’s anti-burglary patrolling officers found Stent inside the property, having forced his way in.

He made off from the address but was detained and arrested after a short foot chase. From the excellent work of the responding officers and the officer in the case, acting Detective Sergeant Blackwood from Harrow CID, Stent was charged, sent to court and is now in prison.