CLARE Moody has started her term as Avon and Somerset's police and crime commissioner after being elected by local voters.

The Labour candidate's four-year term began on Thursday, May 9, 2024.

Ms Moody gained 95,982 votes to win the election.

The new PCC said: “It’s a privilege to have the opportunity to serve the people of Avon and Somerset in this role.

"Now that I am sworn into office, I will be visible, accountable and PCC for all residents of Avon and Somerset.

“The people of Avon and Somerset have communicated their priorities to me.

“On my time on the doorstep people expressed that they want to see a greater connection to their local neighbourhood police and for their service to address and reduce violent crime, particularly knife crime and MVAWG, and to do all we can to prevent crime.”

Her victory follows a career in public service, with experience in the European Parliament and working within 10 Downing Street under Gordon Brown.

She also co-leads an equality and human rights charity, Equally Ours.

As PCC, Ms Moody pledges to focus on creating a greater connection between the public and local police and tackling crime, particularly knife and MVAWG crime.

Priority will also go to preventing crime in the Avon and Somerset Police Area that includes Bath and North East Somerset Council, Bristol City Council, North Somerset Council, Somerset Council and South Gloucestershire Council.

Ms Moody won against Mark Shelford, who received 91,006 votes.

Turnout reached 23.09 per cent, which is a decrease from 30.7 per cent in 2021.