West Mercia Police have appointed a new chief constable.

Paul West will take over from Peter Hampson, who became Director General of the National Criminal Intelligence Service in March.

The 45-year-old, Deputy Chief Constable of Thames Valley Police, is married with a young family.

The Oxford graduate joined Durham Constabulary in 1979 and rose though the ranks, working in the complaints and discipline department as well as a staff officer to the chief constable as a chief inspector.

After his promotion to superintendent, he became divisional commander of Sedgefield, and was head of personnel in Durham before moving to Thames Valley Police.

The keen footballer was looking forward to his new job.

"I'm absolutely delighted to be joining West Mercia at such an exciting and positive time in their history.

"With police numbers at a record high, and a reputation for being at the forefront of innovation, West Mercia's a leading force in the country and I'll be seeking to build on the progress 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."

West Mercia Police Authority chairman Joyce Thomas was "delighted" that he was taking on "the challenge of leading West Mercia constabulary in its fight against crime and ensuring safety and justice".

"I'm confident his appointment will ensure that the reputation of the force at local, regional, and nation level will continue to be enhanced."

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