GLOUCESTERSHIRE police have selected 47-year-old Tony Melville as the county’s new chief constable.

One of two short-listed candidates for the role, Mr Melville is currently deputy chief constable with Devon and Cornwall constabulary.

He will take over the reigns from current chief constable Dr Timothy Brain, who officially retires in January.

"I feel privileged to have been appointed as the next chief constable of Gloucestershire constabulary," said Mr Melville, who played a lead role in the bombing incident that shook Exeter city centre in June 2008.

"I am looking forward to working in partnership with the Police Authority to make sure people are kept safe from harm and are confident in their local police.

"I want to listen carefully to communities, our partners and to our own people who work for the constabulary.

"They will all have an important part to play as we plan for the future with a real focus on putting people first."

Councillor Rob Garnham, chairman of Gloucestershire Police Authority, which selected Mr Meville, said: "Tony came across as a team player, and in interview when talking about officers and staff he mentioned the importance of inclusivity of everyone in the constabulary.

"He has a record of strength, commitment and achievement at Devon and Cornwall and a particular focus on understanding communities and partnership working.

"He is going to be the chief constable we need to take Gloucestershire forward."

Current chief constable Dr Brain added: "I am delighted to be able to congratulate Tony on being appointed as my successor.

"I wish him well and look forward to working with him during the next few months to ensure a smooth transition when I retire."

During his time as deputy chief constable, Mr Melville led an initiative to return 200 officers to front line duties - significantly improving the confidence of residents and their satisfaction with the policing provided.

In 2005, he had national responsibility for tackling knife crime on behalf of the Association of Chief Police Officers and he is a member of the association’s drugs committee.

His wife Jacqueline and three sons currently live in Devon but will be settling in the Gloucestershire area soon.