THE depute leader of the council has welcomed the area's new police commander.

Councillor Jim Clocherty says he looks forward to working with Paul Cameron in his role as chief inspector for the district.

He said: "I’d like to welcome our new chief inspector to Inverclyde and I look forward to working with him and continuing the productive partnership working between the council and the police."

Mr Clocherty also praised outgoing commander Debbie Reilly, who has taken up a superintendent post elsewhere.

Cllr Clocherty said: “Debbie has made such a positive impact here in Inverclyde that it’s no surprise she has earned a promotion and being redeployed elsewhere within Police Scotland.

“Our loss is most certainly their gain and Debbie leaves with all our best wishes."