An Assistant Chief Constable from Thames Valley Police has been named as the preferred candidate to become Surrey's new Chief Constable.

ACC Tim De Meyer began his police career with the Met Police in 1997 and joined Thames Valley Police in 2008.

In 2012, he was promoted to Chief Superintendent for Neighbourhood Policing and Partnership before becoming Head of Professional Standards in 2014.

He was promoted to Assistant Chief Constable for Crime and Criminal Justice in 2017 and moved to Local Policing last year.

 Surrey PCC Lisa Townsend said: "Having seen the passion, experience and professionalism Tim demonstrated during the selection process, I have every confidence he will be an outstanding leader who will guide Surrey Police into an exciting future ahead."

ACC De Meyer added: “I look forward to meeting with the Police and Crime Panel members and setting out my plans to build on the strong foundations put in place by the Force leadership over recent years, should I be confirmed in post."

ACC De Meyer will replace the current incumbent Gavin Stephens, who is leaving the force in April to head up the NPCC.

The appointment will be subject to a confirmation hearing which will take place on January 17.