Editorial

LEADING BY EXAMPLE

23 February 2009

For a borough that is traditionally towards the very top end when it comes to violent and serious crimes in the capital, it is no easy task to be Southwark’s Borough Commander.

Two and a half years after he took up the post, the fact that Borough Commander Malcolm Tillyer is retiring to a chorus of approval from different facets of the community speaks volumes about his dedication and ability. He will be a hard act to follow.

In an age when much discussion is given over to leaders and the relative values of leadership, Cmdr Tillyer’s hands on approach to policing and the success this has engendered is proof, if it were needed, that one person can make a real difference. Since his arrival, he has championed a drive against violent crime in the borough, which included a robust stop and search policy.

But his desire to engage with local people and organisations, and his obvious determination to make Southwark’s police accountable to the people they serve, have won him respect and support in equal measure.

No doubt he will argue that the changes are down to his entire force, and he is right. But the many calls this paper has received from Cmdr Tillyer - eager to ensure the public hear what’s happening straight from the horse’s mouth - tells us at least that the improvements have been coming from the top down.

No-one would suggest that the days of horrific crimes in Southwark are over. Cmdr Tiller himself has been witness to a number of appalling crimes during his tenure, which drew the gaze of the entire country to our borough. But that, unfortunately, is inevitable and no Borough Commander - indeed no police force - will ever eradicate crime in its totality.

What Southwark’s top police officer can do, and this is what Cmdr Tillyer has excelled at, is to instil confidence in the public that, on the whole, the fight is being won. That, given the constant debate about police budgets and manpower, the right priorities are being pursued, and the concerns of all parts of the community are being considered.

Cmdr Tillyer is moving to the Lake District to build his dream home and we join many who wish him a long, happy and peaceful retirement.

Agree or disagree?
Let us know what you think!
E-mail letters@southwarknews.org

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