KIER Pritchard has been named as the preferred candidate to become the permanent chief constable of Wiltshire Police.

The proposal by Police and Crime Commissioner for Wiltshire and Swindon, Angus Macpherson, will now go before the Wiltshire Police and Crime Panel on Friday.

Kier Pritchard has been the temporary chief constable since March after the departure of former Chief Constable Mike Veale.

Mr Macpherson said: “I was very clear when Mr Pritchard was appointed temporary chief constable at the beginning of this year that for a permanent position there must be a fair and transparent process.

“I am delighted that we were able to shortlist two excellent applicants, who have extensive and distinguished policing careers, including experience at the highest level.

“After careful consideration and feedback from the panels, I have selected Kier Pritchard as my preferred candidate for Chief Constable of Wiltshire Police.

“Kier Pritchard has done an excellent job over the past eight months, in the face of unprecedented challenge in Wiltshire, his leadership has been outstanding and he excelled during the interview process.

“He has worked for Wiltshire Police since 1993 and has played an instrumental role in developing collaborations with other forces, specifically to disrupt serious organised crime, and assist in solving major crimes.

“He understands Wiltshire and Swindon and has been at the heart of developing strong relationships with Wiltshire Council, Swindon Borough Council and our regional police forces.

“He is committed to my agenda of maintaining community policing.

“Having served as assistant chief constable since 2014, and temporary chief constable since March 2018 Kier has extensive experience as a chief officer, and I am confident that he will continue to build on the great work being done in the Force that he has played a key role in delivering.”

Mr Pritchard said: “I have a huge sense of pride for being chosen to lead the Force I have served for more than 25 years and I am absolutely thrilled to be the Commissioner’s preferred candidate for Chief Constable of Wiltshire Police.

“This is my home county and I am passionate about making sure we continue to deliver a policing service with our partners that meet the needs of everybody in our communities.

“The needs of Wiltshire Police staff and our communities will be at the heart of everything I do.”