A NEW chief constable has been appointed to lead the fight against crime in the West Mercia force area.

Paul West, currently the deputy Chief Constable of Thames Valley Police, replaces Peter Hampson, who left the force in March after four years. He is now director general of the National Criminal Intelligence Service.

Mr West is 45 and joined Durham Constabulary in 1979 after graduating from Oxford University with a degree in physics.

In this role he took over divisional command in Sedgefield, the seat of Prime Minister Tony Blair.

He then served as head of personnel in Durham before being appointed as assistant Chief Constable with Thames Valley Police in 1998. Later that year, he graduated from Durham University with a Masters degree in human resources management. He was promoted to the position of deputy chief constable in 2000.

A keen musician, Mr West plays the violin, piano and guitar. He also enjoys playing football and watching any type of sport. He is married with a young family.

Speaking about his appointment he said: "I am absolutely delighted to be joining West Mercia Constabulary at such an exciting and positive time in its history.

"With police numbers at a record high and a reputation for being at the forefront of innovation, West Mercia is a leading force in the country and I will be seeking to build on the progress that has been made in recent years.

"I look forward to continuing the close partnership working for which West Mercia has a reputation and to furthering the excellent relationship that exists between the Police Authority and the force."

Police Authority chairman Joyce Thomas said: "I am delighted that Mr West has agreed to take on the challenge of leading West Mercia Constabulary in its fight against crime and ensuring safety and justice. I am confident that his appointment will ensure that the reputation of the force at local, regional and national level will continue to be enhanced in years to come."

Mr West will take up his appointment in the near future.