CUMBRIA'S Police and Crime Commissioner has announced his preferred candidate for Chief Constable.

Richard Rhodes declared Deputy Chief Constable of Cumbria Jerry Graham as his favoured choice to take up the permanent position of Cumbria’s Chief Constable.

Mr Rhodes said: “The candidates demonstrated exceptional qualities through a robust selection process and it was a difficult decision for the Appointments Panel.

“I am pleased to announce that Jerry Graham is my preferred candidate as Chief Constable.”

The announcement followed a rigorous two day selection process by a panel with professional policing knowledge and an understanding of the criminal justice system in Cumbria.

The panel was chaired by Mr Rhodes with support from four representatives from across the county and professional policing advice by former Cumbria Chief Constable and now Deputy Commissioner of the Metropolitan Police Craig Mackey.

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Mr Graham said: “I am delighted and privileged to be the Police and Crime Commissioner’s preferred candidate to lead Cumbria Constabulary.

“I have during the last five years built up a good understanding of Cumbria Constabulary as part of the Chief Officer Team and the communities across the county.

“I am firmly committed to keeping the people of Cumbria safe, fighting crime and tackling anti-social behaviour.”

The next stage in the process will see the Police and Crime Panel hold a hearing on May 9 to assess Mr Graham’s suitability for the role of Chief Constable.

Following that the Panel will make a recommendation to the Police and Crime Commissioner about whether the appointment should be confirmed.