Richard Cooper confirmed as police chief constable

Richard Cooper had stepped in as temporary chief constable in August

Richard Cooper has been formally confirmed as the West Mercia Police's chief constable.

The force has been without a permanent chief constable since Pippa Mills' departure in October 2023.

Mr Cooper temporarily took up the role in August after the previous preferred candidate, Kyle Gordon, commander in the Metropolitan Police, pulled out due to a "change in circumstances".

"I am delighted to have been confirmed in post. I'm now looking forward to providing stability of leadership so that we can continue our current progress towards delivering a superb service when the public need us and tackling crime to keep them safe," said Mr Cooper.

John Campion, West Mercia's Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC), announced Mr Cooper was his confirmed candidate in February.

He said the appointment marked "the beginning of a new focus".

"Not only will Richard's confirmation give West Mercia Police stability, but it will also allow for continuity as we look to build on the progress that has been made to date."

"We have a plan to deliver on behalf of our communities and a mission to ensure those communities are safe and feel safe."