NORTH Yorkshire Police Authority has appointed a development officer to promote a series of policing issues, including community safety.

Joanna Baldwin, a former London police officer, will work directly with the authority's community and police groups, and will promote its policies in several areas.

She said: "I think my knowledge of operational policing will really help when it comes to liaison between the authority, the force and community groups."

Her appointment follows that of Lynne Bethell as administrative officer. She had previously worked for North Yorkshire County Council, as a Year 2000 project officer, and North Yorkshire Police as a CID support officer