A LONDON-based senior police officer is to take over as Chief Constable of Greater Manchester Police.

Michael Todd (44) will succeed Mr David Wilmot who retires in September.

He will lead England's largest provincial police force of 7,200 police officers, 3,400 support staff and with a budget in excess of £400 million.

Mr Todd is currently Assistant Commissioner with the Metropolitan force and was previously an Assistant Chief Constable with Nottinghamshire police and a chief superintendent in Essex.

The appointment is subject to medical clearance and the approval of the Home Secretary.

Greater Manchester Police Authority made the appointment after two days of interviews with a short-list of four candidates.

GMPA chairman, Councillor Stephen Murphy, said: " We are delighted to offer the job to Mike. It was a unanimous decision and I am sure he will relish the challenges and opportunities of taking the police service forward in Greater Manchester."