A POLICEMAN who began his career on the beat on the seafront at Blackpool is the new Assistant Chief Constable of Durham Police.

Chief Superintendant Michael Barton, who has spent his career with the Lancashire force, is to become the fourth member of Durham's executive team, to replace Michael Banks.

He will play a key role in operational and territorial policing and will be responsible for the operations division, CID and communications.

Police authority chairman Peter Thompson said the recruitment process had been competitive and the interview panel was unanimous in offering him the post. He said: "He will be a great addition to Durham, bringing with him invaluable knowledge and experience from Lancashire Police."

Chief Supt Barton said: " I am thrilled to be appointed to the post and will continue the excellent work of Michael Banks to create a citizen-focused service, ensuring every neighbourhood has a recognised policing presence.

"I believe that problem-solving in policing is at the heart of everything we do for the citizens and I will continue to provide a high-quality service that is value for money for the citizens of County Durham and Darlington."

Chief Constable Jon Stoddart said: "Michael is a very experienced officer who will be a strong addition to the executive team. We are all looking forward to working alongside him."

Chief Supt Barton completed a law degree at Newcastle University.

He began his career patrolling the promenade in Blackpool and has since moved through all ranks in uniform and CID. During his 28 years at Lancashire Constabulary, he has been head of CID, and of corporate development and has been divisional commander in Preston for the past three years.