THE task of choosing Hampshire’s next chief constable is set to start early next month.

It follows confirmation that the county’s top police officer, Andy Marsh, has landed the same job at Avon and Somerset Constabulary, where he used to work.

Hampshire and Isle of Wight Police Commissioner Simon Hayes said the process of choosing his successor would begin in the first week of January.

He added: “I anticipate being able to make an appointment within a period of approximately two months.

“Andy Marsh will leave Hampshire Constabulary on January 31 and deputy chief constable Graham McNulty will take over, pending a permanent appointment.

“With the constabulary undergoing significant transformational change, and facing unique pressures with regard to security and public safety, it is important to act without delay to ensure strong and stable leadership is maintained.

“Hampshire is a prestigious and well-respected force and I will be seeking the best person to lead the organisation.”

Earlier this month it was revealed that Mr Marsh was the preferred candidate for the top job at Avon and Somerset Constabulary.

In a message to staff he said: “I have been proud to serve the people of Hampshire and Isle of Wight as chief constable and I would like to thank you all for the warmth, support and ongoing dedication to keeping vulnerable people safe from harm. Your efforts are second to none.

“I understand that some of you might feel disappointed at my decision to put my name forward for this new role.

“But for six years I have lived away from home so when this opportunity arose to spend more time with my family it was something I could not turn down.

“I feel leave behind a strong team with the dedication and ambition to keep our communities safe during what is an exciting era for policing, with many new challenges.”

Mr Hayes added: "During his nearly three years as chief, and previous time as deputy chief, Andy Marsh has made a significant contribution to protecting our communities from harm."

Mr Marsh has now been formally appointed chief constable of Avon and Somerset Constabulary after a rigorous two-day selection procedure.

Cllr Nigel Ashton, who chaired the panel, said he and his colleagues had been impressed by Mr Marsh’s “comprehensive, hands-on experience".