THE new assistant chief constable of West Mercia Constabulary will take up his post on Monday.

Simon Chesterman previously worked for Thames Valley Police, rising through the ranks to chief superintendent. His new post with West Mercia Constabulary involves being responsible for major incident planning and response, serious and organised crime, diversity, roads policing and other protective services including counter-terrorism and cross border working.

He said: "West Mercia Constabulary has an excellent reputation and I am delighted by my appointment. I have been fortunate enough to spend the past four weeks out and about, meeting staff, discussing the policing challenges with them and getting to know the local area.

"I am very much looking forward to settling in the area with my family and serving the communities of Herefordshire, Shropshire, Telford & Wrekin and Worcestershire."

Mr Chesterman is 42, and married to Carron, who is also a police officer. He has three daughters and a son. He enjoys walking, running, going to the gym and reading.

In 2001 he led an enquiry into the theft of a unique Enigma machine, stolen from the Bletchley Park Museum, and a subsequent blackmail investigation. The machine was successfully recovered and an arrest made. Mr Chesterman received a crown court judge's commendation.

Chief Supt Howard Topping has been temporary assistant chief constable (specialist operations) until Simon Chesterman takes up his post.