Last week, Alison Mercer joined the Lynton Neighbourhood Policing team as a fully qualified Police Community Support Officer, having recently been awarded ‘highest professional standard’.
Police Community Support Officers support the work of other policing teams across Devon & Cornwall Police by providing a visible presence on the streets. They build valuable relationships within the community and work to prevent crime, and to tackle disorder and anti-social behaviour; improving the quality of life for people living in local communities.
Alison joined Devon & Cornwall Police as an Enquiry Officer back in 2023 and moved across to a Police Community Support Officer (PCSO) role on 5 January 2026, completing her training on 27 March.
PCSO Mercer said, “I moved to Lynton around eight years ago and spent the last two years working in the Public Enquiry Office in Ilfracombe.
“Over time, I learnt more about policing and found myself wanting a more active role, where I could make a real difference in my community.
“The experience I gained working as an Enquiry Officer undoubtedly helped me to build a strong understanding of the varied nature of policing and has allowed me to step into my new role with confidence and compassion.
“It means a lot to me that I can be the friendly, reassuring face that people living in Lynton can come and speak to about any concerns they have, and I look forward to building stronger relationships with people living in and working in the area.”
PCSO Alison Mercer was recently recognised for her dedication and professionalism, which was observed by tutors as she completed her 12-week training course and led to an award for ‘highest professionalism standard’.
The award was presented by Chief Constable James Vaughan, Inspector Joey Lester and Sergeant Robert Brown at the Devon & Cornwall Police passing out ceremony on 27 March.
Insp. Lester added, “It’s great to have Alison on board and I’m so proud of her dedication to her role which has shone through from the very start of her career in policing.
“Most officers and staff members working in North Devon also live on the patch, which creates a strong ‘team’ dynamic that demonstrates how passionate we all are about serving and protecting our communities.
“I’d like to remind our communities that your local policing teams are here to help. Please stop and have a chat with our officers and discuss any concerns you may have. The more we know, the better we can deal with problems that affect you and the area you live in.”
People living in Lynton and Lynmouth are encouraged to report concerns to police by speaking to officers, filling in a form on the force website or by calling 101.
For the latest updates and crime prevention advice, follow the Lynton team on Facebook: www.facebook.com/LyntonPolice.
