New man joins police top ranks

A POLICE authority has appointed Phil Thompson as Assistant Chief Constable.

He will join the team of chief officers at Cheshire Constabulary.

Mr Thompson, right, joined the force in 1997 after serving 18 years with the West Midlands Police. He has been a detective in every rank of the service and worked on numerous major investigations in both forces. Since being in Cheshire, he has worked in local policing, corporate projects and been the Head of Crime.

This year he graduated from a Strategic Command Course, before his appointment.

Margaret Ollerenshaw, chairman of Cheshire Police Authority, said: "We are delighted to make this appointment following a rigorous selection process. Phil has been involved in many successful operations and initiatives during his time in Cheshire and we are confident that his commitment and dedication will result in an even better service to the public."

Mr Thompson said: "This is a proud moment in my police career. I came to Cheshire 12 years ago with a commitment to serve local people, businesses and work with partners. That applies as much today as it did then and I look forward to the challenges of building public confidence in policing and maintaining the reduction in crime. Cheshire is a great police force – my ambition is to help to make it even better."