THE deputy chief constable for Wiltshire Police has been announced.

Mike Veale, who has been temporary DCC for almost 12 months, was appointed following interviews for the permanent role at the force headquarters in Devizes on Monday.

DCC Veale said: “I am really proud and privileged to have been selected. I do not underestimate the significant responsibility this exciting and challenging role brings.

“The force continues to be one of the top performers in the country, not only in terms of reducing crime and antisocial behaviour but also being one of the least costly and providing value for money.

“The force priorities over the coming months are to maintain that success, continue to prevent crime, protect the most vulnerable in society and improve the high quality of service we provide to local communities.”

DCC Veale joined Wiltshire Police in 2005 as a detective superintendent from Avon and Somerset Constabulary. He was subsequently promoted to detective chief superintendent as the head of CID, before being promoted to assistant chief constable in 2011.

Chief constable Pat Geenty said: “The interview panel were very impressed by his engaging and motivational leadership style and his awareness of the substantial challenges facing the wider police service over the coming months and years. I very much look forward to continuing to work with him.”