THE new chief constable of the region’s police force has been confirmed - and it's a woman for the first time in the force's history.

Pippa Mills, who is currently deputy chief constable of Essex Police, will take over the reins of West Mercia Police from September replacing the retiring Anthony Bangham.

The appointment was confirmed during a meeting of West Mercia Police and Crime Panel at County Hall on Tuesday (July 13).

Ms Mills said: “I am incredibly proud to have been confirmed as the first female chief constable of West Mercia Police.

“I look forward to commencing in the force in September and give my commitment to lead the women and men of West Mercia Police to work with our communities and partners to deliver quality policing services.”

West Mercia Police and Crime Commissioner John Campion said: “I am delighted that Pippa Mills has been confirmed to be the next chief constable.

“I am impressed with her vision to deliver improvements in policing for our communities.

“I am confident she will maximise on the additional investment I have made in policing, helping our communities to be safe and feel safe.

“Outstanding leadership is key, in ensuring the force tackles crime effectively and delivers for the public. I am grateful to Anthony for his excellent services to policing over the past five years and I am looking forward to the future with Pippa.”

Ms Mills will take up the role in September when current chief constable Anthony Bangham retires after 30 years of service including five years in the top job at West Mercia Police.

Pippa Mills was appointed to the position of Deputy Chief Constable of Essex in March 2019 having previously served as Assistant Chief Constable.

She transferred to Essex in May 2017 having started her career in the Metropolitan Police Service.

The promotion to chief constable of West Mercia Police came after two days of interviews involving four candidates.

During the meeting at County Hall, members of the police and crime panel also appointed Worcestershire county councillor Aled Luckman as its new chairman, replacing Cllr Steve Mackay who is serving as chairman of Worcestershire County Council this year, and Herefordshire councillor Barry Durkin as vice chairman.