THE region's current deputy police and crime commissioner has revealed he is standing to take over the top job at May's elections.

Barrie Sheldon, who controversially became Bill Longmore's assistant in 2012, has announced he intends to stand as an independent for West Mercia.

Four years ago he was given the deputy job after being Mr Longmore's election campaign manager, leading to criticism and claims of "cronyism".

But Mr Sheldon, a former police officer, says he will be standing on his track record for the top £75,00-a-year job, urging people to "keep party politics well away from policing".

He said: "I believe it's important that party politics are kept well away from policing - and it's important the people of West Mercia are given the option to vote for a true independent candidate that has no allegiance to any political party.

"I have served the people of West Mercia for over three years and have a proven track record in the role of deputy.

"I've been instrumental in protecting and strengthening the front line of policing, improving victim services, strengthening policing partnerships, protecting and strengthening neighbourhood policing and leading significant change through the transformation of policing services."

He also said despite "severe financial cuts" he felt West Mercia Police was in "an excellent financial position" to go forward.

"I've demonstrated the ability to lead, have credibility in the role and can be trusted as a safe pair of hands," he added.

His candidacy puts him on a collision course with Conservative Councillor John Campion, the Tory candidate for the looming vacancy.

Councillor Campion, who had talks with David Cameron at Downing Street about policing earlier this month, has reacted by calling Mr Sheldon part of "a failed team".

"The current deputy commissioner is part of a failed team who does not have the ideas or energy to take West Mercia police forward," he said.

"Right now he is trying to pinch the pockets of hardworking families by increasing council tax by two per cent despite Government protecting police funding.

"Making it even worse is that he landed his £50,000 a year post without an interview or open selection process.

"The choice at the next election will be between a Conservative candidate with fresh ideas and the ear of Government or a tax-happy unelected independent out on a limb."

Labour is expected to confirm its candidate as Daniel Walton imminently, a former West Worcestershire parliamentary candidate.

When Mr Longmore stunned the main parties by being elected in 2012, he always said he would only serve one term in the job.