Interim police boss is preferred choice for role

Alex Franklin-Smith, who is the county's interim chief constable, said it was "an honour and privilege" to lead the force's officers, staff and volunteers

The police and crime commissioner (PCC) for Warwickshire has named the interim chief as his preferred candidate to head the county's police force.

Alex Franklin-Smith, who has been interim Chief Constable of Warwickshire Police since September, had the qualities needed to take on the role permanently, Conservative PCC Philip Seccombe said.

He said Mr Franklin-Smith, who is deputy chief constable, demonstrated "an impressive commitment to making Warwickshire a safer place for everyone".

The appointment, which will now be reviewed by a panel, follows the retirement of Debbie Tedds after 35 years police service.

Mr Seccombe said appointing a chief constable was one of the PCC's most important responsibilities and it followed a "rigorous recruitment" conducted in line with national regulations.

"My aim throughout this process has been to select someone with the vision, energy, and determination to elevate Warwickshire Police to new heights of excellence while ensuring that victims of crime and local communities remain at the heart of everything we do," he said.

Among aims, Mr Seccombe said he wanted to ensure the successful candidate "commands the support of the police workforce" and engages widely with communities across the county.

Mr Franklin-Smith said he was delighted to be selected as the preferred candidate and was "absolutely committed to serving the public of Warwickshire to the best of my ability".

"Warwickshire is a fantastic county that deserves to have a police force that works for everyone, especially victims of crime," he said.

Debbie Tedds was the first female chief constable of the force, which was established more than 160 years ago.

Mr Franklin-Smith added he would be listening to what people have to say about policing over the coming months, with a new policing plan being built for the force in 2025.