Cambridgeshire’s new police and crime commissioner, Jason Ablewhite, has put forward a former police officer as his deputy.

Mr Ablewhite will recommended Andy Coles, who accrued 30 years’ experience as an officer in the Metropolitan Police, to the county’s police and crime panel.

The former leader of Huntingdonshire District Council, Mr Ablewhite is paid £70,000 as commissioner, with the deputy’s role coming with a £28,000 salary.

Mr Coles is a Conservative councillor for the Fletton and Woodston Ward, sitting on Peterborough City Council.

Mr Ablewhite said: “With such an impressive range of experience in both policing and public service behind him, and a strong local knowledge of Peterborough, Andy is in an ideal position to help me deliver the priorities I outlined during my election campaign to help keep our communities safe.”

Mr Ablewhite announced his recommendation as he and Mr Coles met staff at Cambridgeshire Constabulary’s victims and witnesses hub.

He added: “Victims of crime should always come first. Supporting victims of crime remains a high priority for me. I was delighted to be able to spend time talking to the team who make this support happen on a daily basis.”

The commission is required to formally notify the Cambridgeshire police and crime panel of his proposed appointment and the panel will then be required to arrange a public confirmation hearing.

Once the panel has considered the appointment, the commissioner can then make his formal decision to appoint Mr Coles to the role of deputy.