And sergeant Iain Monro told this newspaper that his team are especially committed to tackling anti-social behaviour and off road bikes.
He said: “The two big issues that we’ve got at the moment is the anti-social behaviour and use of off road bikes.
“Police Scotland are committed to addressing and tackling anti-social behaviour in the Annan area following an increase in incidents throughout the town.
“We are working closely with partners to tackle this and support our community.
“Positive engagement with young people is a key component to tackling anti-social behaviour and supporting young people to make good choices.
“We will continue with our ASB patrols in an effort to tackle ongoing issues and provide support to the community.
“The use of off road bikes in residential and public areas poses a danger to both the public and the rider, and we would encourage reporting of such incidents to Police Scotland.
“During our anti-social behaviour patrols we will encompass areas known for off road bike usage.
“When reporting please provide as much information as possible, including – times, days and location, make, colour and size of the bike, details of clothing, helmets or other distinguishable marks.
“Contact can be made with police via 101 or anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”
Originally from Lanarkshire, Sgt Monro joined Strathclyde Police in 2003.
He soon moved to North Ayrshire, firstly in a response role, then as community officer and latterly working in the violence reduction unit.
Sgt Monro transferred to Dumfriesshire in 2016 and in 2020 he was promoted to sergeant.
He is also trained in public order and CBRN – Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear.
His public order deployments have included working at the Queen’s funeral – he followed the coffin from Aberdeen to Edinburgh and lined part of the route in London – and at the London riots.
Sgt Monro’s team consists of five community officers, two in Lockerbie and three in Annan, as well as youth engagement officers in Annan and Moffat.
On his new position, he said: “It’s a different role and it’s challenging. It’s all about having the resources at the right place at the right time and also doing the preventative work. As I grow in my role I’m hoping I can do more for the community.”
