Lincolnshire Chief Constable Neil Rhodes back at work

Lincolnshire Police's chief constable has returned to work following his suspension by the county's police and crime commissioner (PCC).

Neil Rhodes said he hoped for a "calm, professional and sensible" relationship with the PCC, Alan Hardwick, who suspended him in February.

In March Mr Rhodes won a judicial review of his suspension.

On 1 April, Mr Hardwick said Mr Rhodes would resume his role, despite an earlier statement saying he would not.

Mr Rhodes said there had been "significant tensions" between himself and the PCC.

'Business as usual'

He said: "Over the past few weeks, it has been very difficult indeed."

However, he said a line had been drawn under the incidents following the case at the High Court and he hoped he and Mr Hardwick could establish a "calm, professional and sensible" working relationship.

He added: "My priorities are letting the communities of Lincolnshire and the force know I am very firmly at the helm of this organisation. It really is very much business as usual."

Mr Rhodes was appointed temporary chief constable of the force in March 2012.

Following the High Court case, Mr Hardwick said Mr Rhodes would continue in the role because it was, "in the best interests of Lincolnshire Police".

Mr Hardwick's office confirmed that an investigation into the suspension of Mr Rhodes was ongoing. It is being led by Sir Peter Fahy, the chief constable of Greater Manchester Police.