Police commissioner appoints his deputy

Ron Ball, who was elected as commissioner last month, has announced that Dr Eric Wood OBE, who has also worked as a county education officer, will assume the role.

Dr Wood said: “I am delighted at the opportunity to work with Ron. There are significant challenges ahead and I know that he is determined to demonstrate that the role of the police and crime commissioner will ensure that our police force is accountable and provides efficient and effective policing.

“I intend to help him deliver that promise and together we will focus our efforts on cutting crime, working in partnership with others, and improving community safety.”