Carterton's police inspector is to take command of Witney next year.

Insp Arthur Saville

Inspector Arthur Saville will take charge of both towns from January 6.

Insp Saville, who has been in the police for 28 years, will be taking over from Insp John Fox, who will be moving to the justice department in Banbury.

Insp Saville said: "Shifts have been worked from Witney now for some time and if Carterton wanted additional resources Witney sometimes could not help.

"The changes will mean we'll be able to deploy resources better to where they are needed.

"We have no intention of closing Carterton police station and the town will keep its separate identity.

"I don't think people there will notice a difference. I shall continue to attend parish meetings."