THE acting chief constable of West Mercia Police has confirmed he will leave the force at the end of next month, with his deputy stepping up.

Temporary chief constable (T/CC) Alex Murray will leave West Mercia Police in August to join the National Crime Agency (NCA) after agreeing to take up the role of director of threat leadership.

PCC John Campion has chosen temporary deputy chief constable (T/DCC) Richard Cooper to lead West Mercia Police on an interim basis from Thursday, August 29.

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T/CC Murray said the time was right to move on and thanked everyone for their support in the role.

He said: “It has been an honour to lead West Mercia.

“I have been proud to work with the hard-working police officers and staff, and our partners, to make a real difference for communities, bringing crime down and more offenders to justice.”

T/DCC Cooper said he was honoured to be asked to step up to the role.

He added: “I am incredibly proud to represent the officers, staff and volunteers at West Mercia Police.

“While in this role I am fully committed to ensuring we keep delivering an excellent service for the communities that we serve.”

Police and Crime Commissioner John Campion paid tribute to the departing T/CC Murray and welcomed his temporary successor.

He said: “I would like to thank Alex for his service to West Mercia Police, and for his leadership during his time here.

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“I am pleased to confirm Richard Cooper in post as the temporary chief constable, as I am confident that he will build on the work Alex has done to address the organisational challenges, reduce crime and deliver on the public’s priorities.

“I am certain he will provide continuity and stability through this interim period.”

Mr Campion confirmed that he will begin the process of identifying a permanent chief constable later this year.