LISA Winward has been confirmed as North Yorkshire's new Chief Constable.

The Police and Crime Panel met today and endorsed the recommendation of Police and Crime Commissioner Julia Mulligan.

A rigorous two-day interview process took place in July, including a Question Time event, where members of the public could directly address the two candidates.

Ms Winward, who has been acting temporary Chief Constable since the retirement of Dave Jones earlier this year, will take up her new role on Friday, August 17.

She said: "I'm delighted and I am looking forward to serving the public of North Yorkshire."

Ms Windward started her police career with North Yorkshire Police in 1993, as a Special Constable in York. She joined Humberside Police in 1994 before returning to North Yorkshire in 2008.

Since then she has held a range of roles, from Commander for York to Head of Major Crime, Specialist Operations, Criminal Justice and Force Intelligence, and was appointed Deputy Chief Constable in 2017.

North Yorkshire County Council Leader, Carl Les, the chair of the Police and Crime Panel, said: "The role of Chief Constable is a critical one, particularly as North Yorkshire Police embarks on a period of significant transformational change.

"We believe Lisa has met the standard required for the role and the panel looks forward to working with her as she takes the force through the challenges ahead."

Police and Crime Commissioner Julia Mulligan added: "Lisa has the leadership, skills and experience to drive forward local policing in North Yorkshire and ensure the county's residents are safe and feel safe.

"Having been the temporary Chief Constable, the consistency Lisa will bring to the role, alongside her knowledge of North Yorkshire Police at every level, will ensure she hits the ground running."