A coastal town's new police community support officer (PCSO) has pledged to tackle its long-running parking problems.

After being without its own a dedicated police officer for nearly six months, Southwold has welcomed the arrival of Jamie Newson as its new PCSO.

The 42-year-old's services have been secured as part of a match-funding arrangement, where Southwold Town Council contributes £13,000 to his role over the next year - with Suffolk Police making up the other half.

Mr Newson explained: 'The monitoring of parking has been one of my main considerations, as there is a large volume of traffic in the high street and obviously the town council is keen to keep that flowing.

'Most people tend to obey the restrictions but having a police presence will deter people overstaying in these parking spaces.'

PCSO Newson added he would achieve these objectives through patrols and issuing of parking tickets.

Reports from these patrols will be presented to the council on a monthly basis to monitor progress.

The town council has also outlined plans to strengthen parking restrictions as part of the new Southwold town strategy, which it hopes will ease congestion and help shops to maintain a steady footfall.

Southwold and Reydon have been without a dedicated police presence following the departure of PCSO Neil Haden last year.

During this period the two parishes were served by Halesworth Police Station, resulting in a delay in the time it has taken for police to respond to calls.

Southwold town mayor Melanie Tucker said: 'It has been difficult while we have been without a PSCO.

'However it has been made easier by the fact it was not peak period for the town.

'It would be fair to say some people have felt a vulnerable during this period but we are pleased this will now no longer be the case.'

? Do you have a Southwold story? Email simon.ward@archant.co.uk or call 01502 525832.