PROTECTING front line policing, improving the number of crimes solved and reducing the "fear of crime" has been pledged by the Liberal Democrat candidate if elected the next Police and Crime Commissioner for Thames Valley.

Former Oxfordshire magistrate John Howson, who previously ran in the first ever PCC elections 2012, also vowed to communicate better with community groups through regular meetings.

He also said he would improve technology use in the force.

Mr Howson, who lives in Rewley Road, Oxford, added: "This is a strategic post and may become more important if the Government changes it to cover all three blue light services, which is probably a good way to go.

"But at the moment, it is a strategic role for the police, and I think being a non-Conservative means I can take a more robust view of funding.

"There is risk of a drift of Thames Valley Police officers to the Met if salaries do not get higher because of house prices.

"The PCC and budget need to make sure we can attract high quality staff to provide the best service."

Mr Howson added a lot had developed since the last election, including the increased focus on tackling child sexual exploitation, cyber crime and terrorism.

He said: "Another high priority of mine is the issue between the importance of dealing with traditional crime in a way the public feels protected.

"Visibility of the police is important. Having that bobby on the beat in communities is the traditional core of policing.

"At the same time there are different ways to solve crimes.

"I want to ensure value for money, but protect services to the public."

Mr Howson has lived in Oxfordshire since 1979 and worked at Oxford Brookes University for 12 years.

He was a magistrate in Oxfordshire for 22 years and is currently a county councillor.

He also has financial experience in the public, voluntary and private sectors, including running his own company.

Mr Howson has also been a victim of crime, including a stabbing and several burglaries, and has pledged to ensure support for victims of crime is funded and not cut.

He added: "It is important we have joined up services for victims to get the support they need."

Mr Howson is one of four candidates hoping to win the election on Thursday, May 5.

His competition includes Conservative candidate and current PCC Anthony Stansfeld, Lea Trainer representing the UK Independence Party and Laetisia Carter running for the Labour party.

The Oxford resident said a way to boost the profile of the PCC would be able to deal with complaints to the force himself, which PCC for Northumbria Vera Baird currently does.

He added he would hold the chief constable to account and was confident in challenging the force through scrutiny meetings.