CAMBRIDGESHIRE Police Authority has appointed Simon Parr as Julie Spence’s successor to the post of Chief Constable.

Mr Parr will take up the role in early September when Mrs Spence retires.

Mr Parr is currently Deputy Chief Constable at Hertfordshire Constabulary where he has occupied the post since June 2007, including a brief period as Acting Chief Constable.

Ruth Rogers, Chairman of Cambridgeshire Police Authority, said: “Against strong competition and a very rigorous recruitment process, Simon has clearly emerged as the best candidate to lead the Cambridgeshire force into the future.

“Julie Spence will continue to lead Cambridgeshire Constabulary until September when she will retire. Julie’s tenure has been exemplary and I would like to record my thanks to her for her strong, committed and energetic leadership. She has always put the needs of the people of Cambridgeshire and Peterborough at the forefront of her thinking.

“We have been clear from the beginning that we will face challenges during what is sure to be a financially uncertain time, however we are confident that we have chosen the right candidate to face those challenges head on. We are completely clear that in Simon Parr we have made the right choice for the people of Cambridgeshire and officers and staff of the Constabulary.”

Mr Parr is 49 years old and has been in the police service for 27 years.

Speaking about his appointment Mr Parr said: “I am absolutely delighted to be given the opportunity of serving the people of Cambridgeshire and Peterborough in the role of chief constable.

”I know there are many challenges ahead but I am sure that with the dedication of my staff and the joint working with our partners we will meet those challenges on behalf of the communities we serve.”