A NEW Chief Constable has been appointed to Hampshire Constabulary.

Andy Marsh, who is currently the force’s Deputy Chief Constable, started his new role on Monday, replacing Alex Marshall. The former Chief Constable has taken on the new job of chief executive officer for the newly formed College of Policing.

Mr Marsh’s appointment was confirmed by the Hampshire Police and Crime Panel following his selection by Simon Hayes, Police and Crime Commissioner.

He said: “Hampshire Constabulary has made significant changes and proven highly effective at tackling crime, antisocial behaviour and safeguarding the public under the leadership of Alex Marshall.

“It is a real privilege to have the opportunity to continue to progress that great work and I look forward to working with the PCC in building and developing a policing service that focuses on the needs of all those within our communities.

“Our partner agencies across the two counties are an important part of this process because we cannot do it alone, and we will continue to strengthen those partnerships.

“I am very proud that our force is full of highly committed and dedicated staff. I want to develop the organisation to enable them to help the public to the very best of their ability, because I know that is what our staff come to work to do.”

One of Mr Marsh’s first duties will be to select a new Deputy Chief Constable, with a selection process being held soon. In the interim period, Assistant Chief Constable Laura Nicholson will become temporary Deputy, and Chief Superintendent Nigel Hindle will become temporary Assistant.