A POLICE commissioner has appointed a new chief of staff.

Ron Hogg, Labour Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) for County Durham and Darlington, has recruited Alan Reiss, formerly a senior civil servant at the Department for Education in Westminster.

Mr Hogg said: “Alan has a track record of outstanding leadership within a complex and challenging environment.

“I am confident that he will make an excellent chief of staff and look forward to him supporting me in helping to make County Durham and Darlington a safer place to live and work.”

Mr Reiss said: “The new role of chief of staff is crucial to enable the PCC to discharge his responsibilities effectively.

“I am delighted to be offered the opportunity to support him in making a difference to the lives of people in County Durham and Darlington.”

Mr Reiss succeeds Lesley Davies, who has retired. Mr Hogg thanked Ms Davies for her loyal service and wished her well.