A NEW top cop has been appointed to lead Hertfordshire’s police force, it was announced today (Friday).

Andy Bliss will takeover as the new Chief Constable for the force when Frank Whiteley retires at the end of April.

The 50-year-old, who is currently the Deputy Chief Constable for Essex Police, has almost 30 years experience in policing, joining Sussex Police straight from university in 1982.

The new Chief Constable, who is also the vice chairman of the Association of Chief Police Officers (ACPO) Drugs Committee, said: “I am really delighted to be joining Hertfordshire Constabulary as Chief Constable. It is an excellent force with a national reputation for good performance and innovation.

“My aim is to keep it that way and to build on the fine legacy that Frank Whiteley leaves. Reducing crime, catching criminals and keeping people safe will be our top priorities.

“The next few years will undoubtedly be challenging, but my job will be to lead an excellent team of officers and staff to sustain a high calibre policing service with and for the people of Hertfordshire.

“Working closely with the Police Authority, together with other agencies and our collaborative policing partners in the Bedfordshire and Cambridgeshire forces, I have no doubt that we can continue to be a very successful force even with a reduced budget.”.

Chairman of Hertfordshire Police Authority, Stuart Nagler, who announced the appointment, added: “Andy’s wide ranging experience and knowledge of operational policing, together with his personal strengths and leadership qualities, will enable him to meet the significant challenges that lie ahead for policing in this county.

“Hertfordshire is currently one of the leading forces in the country and our aim in appointing Andy is that it remains that way. My colleagues and I look forward to working with him in the future.”