West Midlands Police new chief constable appointed

David Thompson, left, was appointed chief constable of West Midlands Police by police and crime commissioner David Jamieson

The deputy chief constable of West Midlands Police will take over the top job in January, the force announced today.

David Thompson will take over from retiring Chief Constable Chris Sims.

Police and Crime Commissioner David Jamieson said: "David Thompson is clearly the best person in the country to do the job."

Mr Thompson said: "I will very much be looking to continue the fantastic work of Mr Sims."