Sussex: Chief Constable To Retire

6 December 2013, 14:36 | Updated: 6 December 2013, 14:54

The Chief Constable of Sussex Police has announced he is to retire next year after more than six years leading the force.

The Picture to the right is of Chief Constable Martin Richards receiving the Queen's Police Medal from the Prince of Wales.

Martin Richards, who served as Wiltshire's chief before joining Sussex, will step down in March following a policing career spanning 32 years.

He said: "This is not a decision I have taken lightly. My career as a police officer has been a rewarding one and it has been a particular privilege to serve as Chief Constable of Sussex.

"It had always been my intention to retire as is usual after 30 years' service, but I felt it right to support first the police authority in their final months and then the newly-elected police and crime commissioner through into her second year in office.''

Sussex Police and Crime Commissioner Katy Bourne said: "I would like to recognise Martin's tremendous contribution to Sussex Police during his six years as Chief Constable.

"It has been a pleasure working with him during my first year in office and he has been a great support to me.

"During his service as Chief Constable he has steered the force through difficult times and met some significant financial challenges.''

Plans were being made to advertise and recruit a replacement, she added.