A NEW chief constable has been formally appointed at Cleveland Police.

Iain Spittal steps up from the deputy role after being recommended by Police and Crime Commissioner Barry Coppinger following a recruitment process and received the unanimous backing of the Cleveland Police and Crime Panel.

Mr Spittal said: “I am delighted to have been appointed to this role on a permanent basis.

“Having worked in the organisation for three years now, I know that Cleveland Police is an organisation which is made up of people who are dedicated and hardworking and truly committed to making a difference in local communities, making them stronger and protecting people from harm.”

He joined the force in June 2013 as its deputy chief constable.