Lincolnshire: Preferred candidate for chief constable selected

Paul Gibson is the preferred candidate for Lincolnshire chief constable

A preferred candidate for the role of Lincolnshire chief constable has been selected by the county's crime commissioner (PCC).

Paul Gibson, who is assistant chief constable of Derbyshire Police and began his career as a constable in Grantham, was chosen by PCC Marc Jones.

His appointment now goes to the police and crime panel for their approval.

"I am thrilled and honoured and... very much looking forward to coming home," Mr Gibson said.

"After almost two decades serving in Lincolnshire, I know the county and its people very well and have always harboured an ambition to one day lead the force.

"I am determined to see Lincolnshire Police build upon its community values and continue to deliver an improved quality of service to the public," he said.

The 50-year-old began his career in Lincolnshire in 1998 and spent 19 years on the force before taking up his role in Derbyshire.

He also served as temporary chief constable at Northamptonshire Police last year.

Current chief constable Chris Haward is going to the National Police Chiefs' Council

Mr Jones said the selection process had been thorough and he was confident an excellent candidate had been identified.

"I have no doubt [Paul] will make an outstanding chief constable," he said.

"His passion for the county, its communities and the force that serves them shone through."

The new chief will replace Chris Haward, who is leaving the force to take up a new job with the National Police Chiefs' Council.