In just 10 minutes strolling down Wyndham Street, Const. Jeff Hunt caught up with old acquaintances, passersby, gave a thumbs-up to a musician in front of Old Quebec Street and still managed to warn a woman about jaywalking.

The fact that he did it all with a grin on his face makes it clear that Hunt loves his new job.

A 28-year veteran of the Guelph Police Service, Hunt recently took over the downtown beat after the former downtown liaison officer, Marino Gazzola, was promoted from constable to sergeant.

Hunt will patrol the downtown core by foot from Monday to Friday each week during normal business hours. While a number of qualified candidates applied for position, Hunt said even before Gazzola's departure he was interested in the job.

"We've been friends for years and I let him know that if a position became available I'd certainly be interested."

Hunt said his interest in the position stemmed from the direct contact the downtown liaison officer has with the community and the independence the position provides.

"It's a great opportunity to get out and meet the public," he said. "(And) I like the feel of the personal challenge."

In the three weeks it took to fill Gazzola's vacant position, Hunt said downtown became littered with loiterers, which in turn kept shoppers and other residents out of the area. Hunt said his main priority was to ensure that the downtown core can be used safely by everyone.

"There are some great stores and shops down here," he said of the area. "They shouldn't have to pay the price (for loiterers)."

Hunt said he'll walk his beat every week of the year, regardless of the season or the conditions.

"I'm prepared to deal with whatever the weather person throws at us," he said.

While he'll be on the streets rain or shine, he said he expects his days will be a bit quieter in the cold winter months. "Even the bad guys take the day off when it's -30 Celsius," he said.