GLOUCESTERSHIRE Constabulary has appointed a new interim Chief Constable. 

Maggie Blyth has been appointed, an historic moment according to the organisation, being the second-ever time in its 185 year history that a women has been at the helm. 

The new chief constable was appointed by Chris Nelson the PCC following the suspension of Rod Hansen. 

Mr Nelson said: "Whilst the Constabulary has continued to operate as normal, over the last week I have been completely focused on identifying interim leadership for the organisation. 

“I acted quickly and decisively to appoint an experienced officer with proven leadership skills - and who has operated at the very highest level of policing.

"I am pleased to say that - with the help of my excellent team - and with support and advice from the College of Policing, the Home Office, the National Police Chiefs’ Council and His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire and Rescue Services - I have identified such an individual. 

“Maggie will be seconded to Gloucestershire from the College of Policing, but will retain the national police lead tackling male violence against women and girls (VAWG).

"I am very grateful that she has offered us her services, experience and leadership skills during this interim period”.

Ms Blyth will formally take up her new role on Tuesday (October 22). 

The new chief constable said: “It is an honour to be leading Gloucestershire Constabulary, the oldest county force in the country, with officers and staff who exemplify what it means to be a public servant.

“My intention is to lead the force during this chapter and provide officers and staff with stability and leadership to meet the vision of the Police and Crime Prevention Plan set between the Police and Crime Commissioner and the public.

“In addition to my role as Interim Chief Constable, I will remain the National Police Chiefs’ Council lead for tackling violence against women and girls.

My immediate focus now is on delivering for the people of Gloucestershire and I look forward to getting to know my new colleagues in the coming weeks”

Chief constable Rod Hansen was suspended pending an investigation by the Independent Office of Police Conduct (IOPC) into an alleged breach of standards of professional behaviour.