Wildlife crime 'taken seriously'

http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/rss/-/1/hi/wales/north_east/7166023.stm

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Crime against wildlife is regarded more seriously than ever before, says a policeman whose appointment helped to pioneer a new approach.

Sgt Pete Charleston is retiring seven years after he was appointed North Wales Police's first wildlife and environmental officer.

During that time Sgt Charleston has helped to protect ospreys, bats and even mussels.

He called it "the best job in the world and it's also been a way of life".

According to North Wales Police, he became the first officer in the UK to be seconded to a conservation organisation, and he has worked closely with the Countryside Council for Wales.

The force genuinely recognises wildlife crime as offences far more than it used to when I first joined in 1978 Pete Charleston, left, with his replacement Rob Taylor

Sgt Charleston, who has completed almost 30 years' service, said: "I've always had a great interest in this field and this role has enabled me to develop a far greater personal understanding and knowledge of countryside and wildlife issues."

Since taking the new role in 2000, he has dealt with about 2,500 wildlife cases.

He added: "The highlights of my career would have to be protecting the first ospreys that nested in Wales in 2004 and seeing their return year on year.

"Other cases which stand out that I have dealt with include cases involving great crested newts, bats and freshwater pearl mussels.

'Effective response'

"What I have most enjoyed about the role was the opportunity to access so much knowledge held by others that has been so willingly shared."

"What's changed since coming to the post is that the force genuinely recognises wildlife crime as offences far more than it used to when I first joined in 1978.

"We are aware of the issues and have developed contacts that enable us to deal effectively with wildlife crime in north Wales.

"The partnership work with the Countryside Council for Wales has been crucial in being able to deliver an effective response to wildlife crime."

Perhaps unsurprisingly, Sgt Charleston will not sever his links with wildlife in retirement, as he plans to enjoy walking, bird-watching and enjoying country sports.

He will be replaced by another sergeant, Rob Taylor.