A police and crime commissioner, whose deputy quit just three weeks after taking up the post, has hired an assistant.

Hampshire PCC Michael Lane has offered the £60,000-a-year assistant police and crime commissioner role to former courts service senior leader Enzo Riglia.

In October, former Tory MP Flick Drummond left her role as Mr Lane’s deputy saying it was "not possible [for them] to build a professional relationship".

Mr Lane said he was disappointed the pair had not developed as close a rapport as he had hoped.

Police Oracle has been told the new assistant role is entirely separate to that of the deputy police and crime commissioner with a focus on criminal justice.

Mr Lane advertised the position in April which received a backlash from the public as it followed his controversial budget plans - increasing office costs but axing officers.

A spokesman said: “Enzo Riglia serving as assistant police and crime commissioner supports the police and crime commissioner and leads the focus on criminal justice ensuring that the needs of victims and witnesses are at the heart of policing.

“His role drives partnership working across the criminal justice system and aims to identify innovative solutions that will improve effectiveness and efficiency.”

Mr Riglia was head of crime for the south west region of HM Courts and Tribunal Service, sitting on the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Criminal Justice Board.

Eight other candidates applied for the vacancy.