DORSET Police’s new Chief Constable has officially taken up his post.

James Vaughan, who has served as Deputy Chief Constable for the Force since 2013, began his new role on Saturday after taking over from Debbie Simpson.

He said: “I consider it an honour and privilege to take up the role of Chief Constable.”

Mr Vaughan said one of his key priorities would be the wellbeing of the workforce.

He said: “The men and women of Dorset Police – officers, staff and volunteers –have delivered enormous changes in the Force during recent years reducing our operating budget by £37million; yet we are still a police force that is judged among the best in the country.

He added: “I will be working closely with the Police and Crime Commissioner to deliver the Police and Crime Plan.

“We also have an ambitious joint transformation programme with Devon and Cornwall Police and are working on outline proposals for a full merger."