Former Police Scotland chief constable Phil Gormley has been confirmed as a new HM inspector of constabulary – and fire and rescue services in England.

Police Oracle reported earlier this week that an announcement of the new job for the officer, who quit the national force amid complaints including bullying allegations - which he strenuously denied – would be made today.

He is now the only HMI with a policing background, though his role will be split across both the emergency services covered by the inspectorate. He will focus on the north of England.

In a statement he said: “Policing and public service have been my life’s work, so I am delighted to be appointed by Her Majesty.

“I look forward to working with colleagues at the inspectorate and across policing and fire and rescue to continue to improve these vital services.”

A Home Office statement says he was selected following “a stringent recruitment process”, which followed the code of practice for public appointments.

The selection panel was led by independent chairman Amanda Campbell, of the Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman. It also included a senior civil servant and Sir Thomas Winsor, HM Chief Inspector of Constabulary and Chief Fire and Rescue Inspector for England.

HMICFRS inspectors are appointed by HM The Queen on the advice of the Home Secretary and the Prime Minister.