Assistant Chief Constable Andy Marsh (left) has been appointed the new deputy chief constable of Hampshire Constabulary.

Mr Marsh, currently serving with Avon and Somerset Constabulary, will take over the post following Simon Cole’s move to become chief constable of Leicestershire at the end of May.

Chief Constable Alex Marshall said: “This is great news for the constabulary. Andy Marsh brings to Hampshire experience as a chief officer in two forces. He came into the interview full of enthusiasm and is clearly committed to giving an excellent service to the people of Hampshire and the Isle of Wight and to the officers and staff of the constabulary. We are greatly looking forward to welcoming him.”

Mr Marsh said: “I am delighted to be joining such a progressive and successful force and I’m extremely pleased to be working with the team and our partners to face the challenges that lay ahead of us.”

Councillor Jacqui Rayment, chair of Hampshire Police Authority, said: “At a time of significant budget reductions and pressure on frontline policing, Andy’s experience and knowledge will be used to the full to help ensure we continue to deliver the best possible policing service for Hampshire and the Isle of Wight.”

Mr Marsh began his policing career with Avon and Somerset Constabulary, before transferring to Wiltshire Police as an assistant chief constable in 2007 and returning to his home force in 2009.
A date for Mr Marsh to commence his new role will be confirmed shortly.