LANCASHIRE Police are set to get a new top cop after Andy Rhodes was announced as its new chief constable.

Mr Rhodes will step up from his role as the force’s deputy chief constable in June and will replace the outgoing Chf Cons Steve Finnigan.

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Dep Chf Cons Rhodes, who successfully came through a two-day interview process supported by the College of Policing, has described the appointment as the ‘the proudest moment of his professional life’.

He said: “The process over the last two days has been extremely tense, and quite rightly so. This is the proudest moment of my career.

“It’s a challenging and exciting role and I cannot wait to get started.”

The appointment is subject to a confirmation hearing by the Police and Crime Panel later this month.

Police and crime commissioner Clive Grunshaw, who made the appointment, said he is confident the right person has been appointed into the job.

Mr Grunshaw said: “Andy brings a wealth of experience to the role. Lancashire is consistently one of the highest performing police forces in the country and I am confident the new chief constable will continue to maintain that position.

“It’s an honour and a privilege as police and crime commissioner to be able to appoint the chief constable and is one of the biggest decisions I will make.”

He added: “Lancashire continues to face significant challenges brought about by the changing nature of crime, increased demand and decreasing budgets and I am looking forward to working together with Andy in the years ahead.”

Dep Chf Cons Rhodes began his policing career in Lancashire in 1991, rising to divisional commander for East Lancashire in 2006 and has served as assistant chief constable before being appointed to his current role in 2014.

Chf Cons Finnigan took over the role of chief constable temporarily in 2005, securing the position permanently 2007.

Speaking when the Chief Constable role was advertised, Mr Grunshaw said: “This is a great opportunity for an ambitious police leader to take the helm of the constabulary at a time when we are continuing our transformation journey.

“I want to thank Steve for his very dedicated service.

“Lancashire’s position is one of the best in the country.”