Cheshire Constabulary has begun its hunt for a successor to Chief Constable Darren Martland who is retiring after more than 30 years’ service.

The force has called for applications and set out the job description for the £156,693-a-year post.

Cheshire Police and Crime Commissioner, David Keane said he was “looking for an exceptional individual” to take over from the current chief.

Mr Martland was appointed in February 2019, after serving as acting Chief Constable after Simon Byrne moved to lead the Police Service of Northern Ireland. He will retire in Spring of this year.

CC Martland said: “I have made the very difficult decision to retire from policing in order to enable me to spend more time with my family and pursue other personal interests.”

His successor will be inheriting a force that has retained a PEEL inspection grading of ‘good’ in all areas for three consecutive years. It understands demand well and has developed financial plans to deal with funding cuts.

The force was praised for investigating crime, having clear procedures and improved supervision. The constabulary identifies vulnerable victims well and works with partners to support them. But there was concern over custody suits following legislation for detainees.

Attributes needed for the role include “an ability to operate effectively in an environment of diminishing resources and increasingly complex challenges”.

They will also be expected to “embed a supportive, compassionate and nurturing culture which promotes innovation and personal and professional development.”

As usual, the appointment will be subject to a Confirmation Hearing of the Police and Crime Panel.

Mr Keane said: “Standing still is not an option. I want to work with our new Chief Constable to build on our strong foundations and tackle head on the complex and challenging environment in which modern day policing is operating.

“I want to establish a policing culture which promotes innovation, is compassionate to our people and seeks to make the most out of our highly-valued partnerships. If you share this ambition and vision and believe you are the right person to lead our police service then I look forward to hearing from you.”