THE police and crime commissioner for Surrey David Munro has said that temporary chief constable Gavin Stephens is his preferred candidate to take the role permanently.

The appointment will now be subject to a confirmation hearing by Surrey’s Police and Crime Panel on April 5.

Mr Stephens has been acting as the temporary chief since January having stepped up from his role as deputy chief constable following the departure of Nick Ephgrave to the Metropolitan Police.

His suitability for the role was tested during a thorough assessment day which included questioning from some of Surrey Police’s key stakeholders, preparing and delivering a presentation and being interviewed by an appointments panel chaired by the police and crime commissioner.

But police and crime commissioner David Munro said: “Gavin has the skills, experience and passion to lead Surrey Police into an exciting future ahead and I am delighted to offer the post of chief constable to him. I have every confidence that he will be an outstanding leader for the force.”

Mr Stephens said: “I’ve always been proud to be a constable in Surrey Police. I’m absolutely delighted to have been offered, and accepted, the role of chief constable. I passionately believe that Surrey Police has a bright future ahead building on the firm foundations put in place by Nick Ephgrave over recent years.”

Mr Stephens joined Surrey Police in 1996 as a police constable, and has served at every rank in the force.

He is the National Police Chiefs’ Council lead for neighbourhood policing, police community support officers, social media and digital engagement.

He has also recently led on new national guidance for neighbourhood policing and is working with all forces in the UK to improve the service provided to local communities.