The chief constable of Lincolnshire Police says his decision to leave the force for a new NPCC role is about trying something new after a career spent mostly "on the frontline or helping to deliver day-to-day policing".

CC Chris Haward is to depart Lincolnshire in February 2024 to become the UK coordinator tackling serious and organised crime (SOC).

After more than 32 years in policing, and just over three as Lincolnshire's chief, he's excited for a new challenge.

"It is with a great deal of sadness that I have decided to move on from Lincolnshire. I did not expect to be leaving Lincolnshire at this point, but an unexpected opportunity has arisen and it’s time for a new challenge.

"Since I joined policing, I have either been on the frontline or helping to deliver day-to-day policing, and during the last three years in Lincolnshire I have put focus on the day-to-day culture and wellbeing that runs through the force, with the aim to make sure we deliver the highest possible standard of policing to our communities. I think, and hope, that has made a positive impact. It’s time now for me to try something new..."

CC Haward's new role, which focuses on "co-ordinating the response across all police forces and partner agencies" to counter SOC, does represent a shift.

Lincolnshire PCC Marc Jones is sad to see the chief depart but says he understands "what a fantastic opportunity the new role presents for him".

“Chris has been a dedicated, committed, hard working Chief and has done fantastic work in Lincolnshire. Not only did he see the force through the huge challenge of transitioning away from the G4S contract he has worked tirelessly to create a police force equipped to tackle modern crime and to keep our communities safe."

Prior to joining Lincolnshire in December 2020, CC Haward was head of the East Midlands Special Operations Unit which he took over in early 2018 in the rank of DCC.

He has also worked for Leicestershire and Derbyshire Police during a career that has spanned over 32 years.