A Cup of Tea with… James Breed – Police Constable

Headline Date 01-03-2017

Welcome to “A cup of tea with…” where each month we sit down and chat with people who live and work in our area and have a passion for Victoria.

How long have you worked in Victoria?

I’ve worked in the Victoria area for 6 years.

What is your favourite spot in Victoria?

This is very much weather dependent, but I’ve got a fondness for Grosvenor Gardens and the Piazza in good weather. However, to be protected from the elements, I do like a walk through Cardinal Place.

What is your favourite lunchtime spot?

I very rarely get the chance to eat out as there is always something to be done, however there are a number of good restaurants and bars.  The ongoing regeneration in Victoria has created multiple options, a few of which I have sampled outside of work hours. However, convenience is a high priority when it comes to choosing a lunch time spot, so with that in mind, I do like the variety on offer at Victoria Place.

What was the biggest change you have experienced in Victoria?

The biggest change I’ve experienced has been the improvement project that has been ongoing for some time. The Victoria area is close to being unrecognisable from when I first started working here. The constant evolution of the area has been impressive to watch as multiple buildings have been replaced or updated.

If you could change one thing in Victoria, what would it be?

There really isn’t too much that I would change. The ongoing building works can be a source of frustration when it restricts access but I see that it is necessary to improve the area.

What is your favourite story about Victoria?

I’ve got a lot of wide and varied stories from working in Victoria, so it’s difficult to choose a favourite.  I’ve taken great pride in policing Victoria, I’ve been part of some big events but I’ve equally enjoyed my day to day interactions.

What is your message for the people out there in Victoria?

My message is one of crime prevention, as more and more people are drawn to Victoria, I don’t want people to be victims of crime. If people could take care of their personal possessions when out and about and be mindful that thieves do operate in the area, we’ll continue to have a safe and pleasant area for people to work and visit.

What is the biggest issues/ challenge Victoria is facing in the future?

The biggest challenge is with increasing visitors and workers to Victoria, that we continue to deal with the crimes that occur and make it as safe as possible for people to be here.

Our next Cup of Tea with….will be with Robin San from Coffee Geeks and Friends and be out next month. To stay up to date with everything going on in Victoria follow us on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram or sign up to our newsletter here.