Patrick Geenty becomes first chief constable to be appointed by a newly-elected PCC

The first chief constable to be appointed by a newly-elected police and crime commissioner (PCC) was revealed today.

The appointment of Patrick Geenty, who will head the operational side of Wiltshire Police, was announced by PCC Angus Macpherson.

Mr Macpherson, who ran as a Conservative candidate in November's election, is exercising the power which comes with the newly-elected role.

Mr Geenty was already the acting chief constable and considered the frontrunner for the position, but his role has now been confirmed.

Three candidates were interviewed for the fixed-term five-year post, which has an initial salary of £133,000.

Mr Geenty said he was "thrilled and delighted" to be the new chief constable, describing the interview process as "rigorous".

The officer, who has 30 years' police service, has been the county's temporary chief constable for the past year.

He said he would be continuing the work he has been doing over the last 12 months to ensure the people of Swindon and Wiltshire are part of the safest county in the country.

During a press conference at the police headquarters in Devizes, Mr Geenty and Mr Macpherson both touched on the fact that the force will be looking to make savings of around £6 million to £7 million over the next couple of years.

Wiltshire Police has 2,045 employees, comprising 1,062 police officers and 640 police staff. The annual budget is £106 million, made up of £69.5 million central grant and £36.5 million precept.

PA