Rye is set to losetwo of its keypolice officers

PC Nigel Collins re-locates to York while PCSO Neil Holden, a familiar face in Rye town centre, is moving to Bexhill.

Rye police sergeant Warren Downs paid tribute to both men this week, describing them as ‘faithful servants’ of the town and Rye area.

He said: “It is the end of an era. Nigel has been a very hard working officer and served his community admirably.”

Both have played a long and important role in keeping local people safe.

PC Collins has policed the Rye area for almost eight years and PCSO Holden for nearly six.

PC Collins said: “It has been an immensely positive time for me.

“Rye is unique and is still a safe and beautiful place to live in. There is always something going on.

“I have enjoyed working with the community, helping to keep people safe at Camber Sands and taking part in operations such as Ride Safe, where we helped educate bikers to ride in a safe, considerate way.

“My last big event was Rye Bonfire on Saturday so you could say I went out with a bang!”

PC Collins was also instrumental in helping to set up Speedwatch groups in the rural villages.

These are now thriving with groups being established in Brede and Northiam.

PC Collins commented: “It is a good legacy to leave behind.”

PCSO Holden was well known in his town centre role and took a proactive approach in trying to tackle illegal and dangerous parking in the absence of a traffic warden.

He said: “I leave Rye with a heavy heart. I have thoroughly enjoyed my time here and have often stated that I might like to retire here one day.

“Rye is a great town with lots of people that I will miss a lot.

“I have had tremendous job satisfaction working here. I have often stated that 99% of the people of Rye really seem to appreciate what I do and I truly believe that.

“I have not been afraid to tackle the tasks associated with the job. Youth engagement I feel has been really important, trying to keep all sorts of people out of trouble.

Knowing as many people as I do has been a great advantage. I have dealt with the parking problems robustly when necessary and been the eyes and ears of the town regarding local crime and anti social behaviour.

“When an incident occurs in Rye we have usually got a good idea who the culprit is and I have to say that the general public have been excellent in assisting us with enquiries.

“The good people of Rye will not put up with the minority who cause problems for the town. Long may that continue.

“However for me it is now time for a new challenge, not to mention the fact that I will save a lot of time and petrol by moving to Bexhill. I wish everyone well.”

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