THE search for new permanent Chief constable for Cleveland Police has been launched following the re-election of the police and crime commissioner.

Barry Coppinger says he wants his chosen candidate to be an inspirational leader with the drive and determination to take Cleveland Police forward.

And Mr Coppinger has even offered to personally take prospective candidates on a two-hour tour of local towns and villages to show them the area they would be policing.

He said: “The tide is starting to turn for the Cleveland area and there is much to be positive about – I want the chosen candidate to share and spread that positivity. We now have a premier league football team and I want us to have a premier league Chief Constable.

“Nationally it is a challenging time to be a Chief Constable as there are significant pressures on the service, but I absolutely want our permanent Chief to be someone who can turn challenge into opportunity and lead our police force to a sustainable future as well as someone who shares my vision for Cleveland Police as an employer of choice for all who may wish to flourish in a policing career."

The force has been led by Temporary Chief Constable Iain Spittal for several months following the retirement of Jacqui Cheer earlier this year.