A NEW top cop is at the helm of policing in Sunderland and South Tyneside.

Temporary Chief Superintendent Sarah Pitt has temporarily taken over the role as area commander for Southern Area Command to oversee policing across Sunderland and South Tyneside.

T/Ch Supt Pitt joins the area command from Northumbria Police’s Operations Department where she was responsible for the force’s firearm support unit, motor patrols, marine unit, dog section and mounted unit.

Since joining the force in 1995 T/Ch Supt Pitt has carried out a variety of roles across the Northumbria Police force area including 24/7 response, neighbourhood and CID.

For the past three years she has been the Silver Commander for the Sunderland International Airshow.

She will also be Silver Commander for Sunderland Tall Ships next year when the annual competition docks in the city.

T/Ch Supt Pitt said: “I’m excited to be back in Southern Area Command and covering Sunderland and South Tyneside, both are fantastic areas and I’m really pleased to lead the senior management team to ensure we continue to provide a high quality service to our communities and protect those who are most vulnerable.

“I’m really proud of all of our officers and staff within the area command and the role they play to make our communities safer places for everyone and the difference they make.”