AN OFFICER with almost 30 years experience has been appointed the new Assistant Chief Constable of West Mercia police.

Peter Wright, who was already serving in the role on a temporary basis, has been with the force since 1978.

The 48-year-old is married to a former West Mercian officer - whose mother was also a force officer - and he has a Diploma in Criminology from Cambridge University. When not at work he enjoys reading - mainly history and historical fiction.

Assistant Chief Constable Wright has served in a number of posts across West Mercia, gaining wide experience, both as a uniformed officer and a detective.

During the last year he has been West Mercia Constabulary's director of strategy and organisation, developing a far-reaching police reforms management programme.

He is also currently responsible for the Initial Police Learning and Development Programme (IPLDP), which has attracted national interest and Ass Ch Cons Wright delivered a keynote address to a Home Office national seminar in January.

Chairman of West Mercia, Paul Deneen said: "We are delighted at the appointment of Mr Wright, who was the outstanding candidate and who brings with him enormous experience and knowledge of West Mercia."