Avon and Somerset assistant chief constable Jon Reilly has described the opportunity to become the force's new deputy a "great privilege and honour".

The new DCC is to replace the outgoing Nikki Watson, who during her 36 years with Avon and Somerset oversaw the creation of the force's VAWG strategy and introduced the online reporting system to reduce demand on 999 and 101.

She also received the Queen’s Police Medal for leading the force's response to the Covid-19 pandemic. Chief constable Sarah Crew said her legacy will be "a lasting one".

Her replacement has also had a distinguished career since joining Avon and Somerset Police in 1997. Since then the new DCC has held positions including Bristol Area Commander and Head of Investigations. He’s also served as South West Regional ACC.

He said: "My commitment to this area is unwavering and I’m passionate about delivering a police service everyone can be proud of. I’m fully aware of the ongoing challenges policing nationally is facing into, but repairing and increasing the public’s trust and confidence in us is something I’m wholly committed to doing."

CC Crew described the new DCC as "an exceptional police officer and public servant" who will bring a wealth of experience and knowledge to the role.

"I know he’ll work tirelessly to help us deliver outstanding policing for everyone and he fully supports the ongoing drive to improve public confidence in policing through greater openness, accountability and transparency.”