Hampshire Police Authority has chosen a new deputy chief constable to take over from Ian Readhead, who retires next month after 37 years.

Simon Cole will rise from assistant chief constable to take up the post when Mr Readhead steps down on September 8.

Authority chairman Cllr Jacqui Rayment said: “We are delighted to be able to appoint someone of Simon’s calibre.

“We received a good number of applications, and were in the nice but difficult position of choosing between some excellent candidates.”

Mr Cole began his career with West Midlands Police in 1988. He transferred to Hampshire in 2003.

During his time as assistant chief constable he was heavily involved in the introduction of the Safer Neighbourhoods scheme.

He said: “I’m thrilled to be able to continue to serve the public of the two counties (Hampshire and the Isle of Wight).

“I will work hard to make our service more visible, and to ensure that we work with our partners to make a difference by reducing crime and improving quality of life.”

Chief Constable Paul Kern-aghan said: “I am delighted that Simon Cole has been selected.

“He is well known and widely respected throughout the force. He has made a significant contribution during his first five years with the force and his promotion will ensure a welcome degree of continuity within the ACPO team.

“He richly deserves his advancement and I look forward to working with him as my deputy in due course.”

Mr Readhead added: “There is no other person who I would want to succeed me in this post. Simon has a great passion for the force.”

After studying for a BA Hons in English Language and Literature at Durham University, Mr Cole went on to obtain an MA in History at University College Worcester.

He also has a Diploma in Policing and Applied Criminology from Cambridge University and at a national level is the ACPO lead for crime statistics and vetting.

He is also the south-east lead for the Special Constabulary. He is married with two young children, coaches junior rugby and is a keen tennis player.