Essex: Five Candidates For Police Chief

Five candidates are on the shortlist to become the next Chief Constable of Essex Police.

Current Chief Constable, Jim Barker-McCardle is stepping down in May and the selection process will take place between February 12 and 13. 

The preferred candidate will then be confirmed by the Police and Crime Panel on February 21. 

The candidates are: 

- Simon Bailey, Deputy Chief Constable, Norfolk Police; 

- Derek Benson, Deputy Chief Constable, Essex Police; 

- Mark Gilmore, Deputy Chief Constable, Northumbria Police; 

- Stephen Kavanagh, Deputy Assistant Commissioner, Metropolitan Police Service; 

- Alan Pughsley, Deputy Chief Constable, Kent Police. 

Police and Crime Commissioner for Essex, Nick Alston, said: "I am delighted that we have five exceptional candidates in the running to be the next Chief Constable of Essex Police. Essex is an excellent force, and has attracted excellent candidates. 

"I am also delighted that Chief Constable Jim Barker-McCardle will be remaining in post until 3rd May, 2013, continuing to provide strong leadership for the force."