Cleveland Police appoints Iain Spittal as temporary chief

Iain Spittal joined Cleveland Police from the North Yorkshire force

Troubled Cleveland Police has appointed a temporary chief constable.

Iain Spittal will replace Jacqui Cheer, who took over from Sean Price after he was sacked for misconduct in 2012.

Mr Spittal has been the force's deputy since 2013 after previous incumbent Derek Bonnard was also sacked for misconduct during a separate hearing.

Recruitment for a permanent chief constable will take place after the Police and Crime Commissioner elections on 5 May.

Ms Cheer announced in June she was stepping down and will leave the post in March.

Police and Crime Commissioner Barry Coppinger said: "Iain loves policing and is passionate about delivering a fantastic service.

"He is highly regarded in his field and is well respected in Cleveland Police for his dynamic and innovative approach."