THE new Deputy Chief Constable at Gloucestershire Constabulary says he is “thrilled” to be joining the county’s police force.

Shaun West, who previously worked across all five forces in the South West as regional Assistant Chief Constable, has taken over from former Deputy Jon Stratford this week.

The experienced policeman described the opportunity to focus his work on policing in Gloucestershire as “fantastic”.

Shaun began his career in 1994 as a Special Constable, before going on to hold a number of leadership roles in force areas across the country.

He was appointed chair of the multi-agency Covid-19 National Foresight Group in 2020, which saw him lead four Interim Operational Reviews in support of ministers across England and Wales.

Chief Constable Rod Hansen said of his appointment: “I am delighted to welcome Shaun into our Constabulary and look forward to us and our communities benefitting from his wealth of experience and knowledge.

“It was a tough selection process that was hotly contested so Shaun has earned his place.

“Shaun has worked across nine police force areas, four in the East Midlands and five in the South West, leading public service for the Regional and Organised Crime Unit, Counter Terrorism Policing and Specialist Operations, in support of local communities.

“He is passionate about youth engagement, previously holding the National Police Chiefs’ Council portfolio for Mini Police, and I am hopeful these skills can be emulated by our officers and staff.”

Shaun added: “I am thrilled to be appointed as Deputy Chief Constable here in Gloucestershire. I have really enjoyed working across the five forces in the South West region in my previous role and the opportunity to focus my leadership in Gloucestershire is a fantastic one.

“I have met many of our police officers, police staff and volunteers and know how committed they are to the communities of Gloucestershire.

“I look forward to supporting Police and Crime Commissioner Chris Nelson, Chief Constable Rod Hansen and our partners in our shared ambitions.”