NICK Gargan is set to become the new Chief Constable of Avon and Somerset Police.

The 46-year-old was previously the Chief Constable of the National Policing Improvement Agency, and an Assistant Chief Constable with Thames Valley Police.

His appointment, proposed by the Police and Crime Commissioner Sue Mountstevens, will be considered at a meeting of the Police and Crime Panel on Wednesday.

Ms Mountstevens said: “I am delighted to propose Nick Gargan as the next Chief Constable of Avon and Somerset.

“Nick is an experienced chief officer who has been working on a national level as Chief Constable and Chief Executive of the National Policing Improvement Agency.

"He has been involved in the Ministerial High Level Working Group on Value for Money, and was the Association of Chief Police Officers' lead on investigations as well as holding roles with Thames Valley and Leicestershire Constabulary.

“There was a strong field of candidates and the appointments panel had a difficult job.

"I would like to publicly thank all the candidates for their interest and the panel for giving up their time to be part of this important process.

“We will both meet the Police and Crime Panel on Wednesday and they will have the opportunity to see that Nick is an experienced leader and committed to giving the people of Avon and Somerset an excellent policing service.”

Mr Gargan said: “I am proud to take up the position of Chief Constable for Avon and Somerset Constabulary, subject to the confirmation hearing.

"This is an exciting opportunity for me to work with the Police and Crime Commissioner Sue Mountstevens.

"Together we will continue the force’s improvements in reducing crime and victim satisfaction.

“My experience from the National Policing Improvement Agency and previous roles in Thames Valley and Leicestershire will enable me to make a real difference to the communities of Avon and Somerset.

"I look forward to leading the very committed and dedicated police officers and staff within Avon and Somerset Constabulary.”

As reported, the current Chief Constable of Avon and Somerset Police, Colin Port, who is due to leave his role on January 26, had launched a legal battle to block the appointment of his successor.

Deputy Chief Constable Rob Beckley will be acting Chief Constable from January 27 until Mr Gargan’s appointment takes effect.