A FORMER police chief who plans to stand for election as Dorset’s police and crime commissioner has blasted Dorset Police Authority for failing to brief candidates.

Martyn Underhill, 53, who led the Sarah Payne murder inquiry and now lives in Poole, told the Daily Echo that DPA had failed to issue briefing data and documents to candidates.

He said: “We lack information on the issues faced by the force and the police authority.

“Most of the candidates will not have access to crucial information held by the force.”

In an email to Mr Underhill, pictured, Dorset Police Authority’s policy officer Jason Mumford said packs would be available much closer to the election on November 15.