Police chief airs his views over the web

Last updated at 16:51 19 July 2006


A police chief known for his controversial views claims he has become the UK's first chief constable to launch an online weblog.

North Wales Police boss Richard Brunstrom claims he is the first Chief Constable in the UK to publish an online diary.

In it, he discusses his views on policing and makes a brief reference to his frustration with Home Office merger plans.

He writes: "Always keen to innovate and to make full use of modern communications, I have decided to become the UK's first blogging Chief Constable.

"I've no idea whether this will work, or how long I'll keep it going - I suspect that rather depends on you, the readers.

"If it hits the spot then I'll keep it up, if not it'll get ditched like most of my 'good ideas'."

Mr Brunstrom also discusses how he spent his day off helping his colleagues police a local music festival in order to "have some fun".

He describes it as "fantastic to get a full day out on the street doing real police work" and expresses his delight at making his first arrest of the year - for possession of £20 of herbal cannabis.

The Chief Constable reveals his plans to launch his own podcast, which will be broadcast on the force's website alongside his blog.

Mr Brunstrom has caused controversy with his tough anti-speeding policy.

In the past he has branded speeders "criminals" and "anti-social" as well as backing the prosecution of a paramedic caught speeding in an ambulance.

He was branded "the godfather of the speed camera" by Police magazine, the official publication of the Police Federation, which represents rank and file officers in England and Wales.

Mr Brunstrom's blog is available at www.north-wales.police.uk.

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