THE county's police and crime commissioner has confirmed that his deputy will be leaving the role after just two months.

Michael Lane, PCC for Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, announced that Flick Drummond had left her post.

Ms Drummond said the two were unable to "build a professional relationship".

Ms Drummond was appointed deputy police and crime commissioner last month.

Mr Lane said: "The relationship between a PCC and his deputy has to be close and, unfortunately, it has become apparent this could not happen in this case.

"Following talks, we have both come to the decision that this is the best course of action to take."

He added: "I would like to express my sincere thanks to Flick for all she has done for me over the last two months and her willingness to consider this post, supporting and deputising for me. 

"It seemed we had complementary skills that would have enabled the close rapport needed to work together and add value for the people we serve, to keep them safer. 

"This is a disappointment to us both.”

Ms Drummond, the former Conservative MP for Portsmouth South from 2015 but lost her seat in June's general election to Labour's Stephen Morgan. 

In a statement released, Ms Drummond said: "I have very much enjoyed my time as the Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner and I thank Michael for the opportunity.

"Sometimes it is not possible to build a professional relationship between two people, through no fault of either party. 

"In such a situation it is right I leave to avoid any disruption to the work of the PCC and his staff.

"I’m now looking forward to pursuing my ambition to be re-elected to Parliament. I wish Michael all the best with the excellent work he is doing."