West Mercia PCC confirms appointment of his deputy

Barrie, who will work alongside the recently elected West Mercia Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) Bill Longmore, brings with him a wealth of experience following his long career in the police force, and later as a senior lecturer in in policing, criminal justice, and terrorism at Teeside University.

Speaking about the appointment of his Deputy, PCC Longmore said:

“I have carefully considered the Police and Crime Panel’s (PCP) report outlining their recommendations about my proposal to appoint Barrie as Deputy PCC. I have taken these on board however I remain confident Barrie’s qualities will complement those that I bring to the PCC Office.

“Barrie’s role will be vital to assist me to discharge the major responsibilities that the Government has set. These, to be achieved in a very short space of time, include producing the Police and Crime Plan and working with the Chief Constable to set the precept.

“I am one of the many PCCs who have decided to appoint a Deputy PCC a move which is backed by the Police and Crime Panel (PCP). However, I am aware this is a controversial issue nationally.

“West Mercia is a huge geographical area and there is simply no way I could do justice to the one million plus people right across the counties of Herefordshire, Shropshire and Worcestershire working on my own.

“Barrie was a senior lecturer in policing, criminal justice, and terrorism at Teesside University and was responsible for the professional development of police officers in West Mercia and elsewhere. While he had been a junior colleague of mine in the Police Force over twenty-five years ago, in all that time I have had no dealings with him. It was only around six months ago that I contacted him to assist in my election campaign. I was extremely impressed with the job that he did and have decided to invite him to act as my Deputy. Also, like me, he is independent from any political affiliation.

“I can reassure residents of West Mercia that I would not make this appointment if I did not feel it was absolutely necessary to ensure I do the best job possible during my time in office.”

West Mercia’s new DPCC, Barrie Sheldon, commented:

“I am very proud to have been appointed to this position and am very much looking forward to working with the new Police and Crime Commissioner.

“I am particularly keen to help make a real difference to policing in local communities across West Mercia

“I believe my vast amount of experience in education and the police service will be helpful on many levels, including engaging with local people, controlling budgets and helping set police priorities.”

Bill added: “I am keen to focus on listening to local people and addressing their concerns about the future of the policing service.”

The operation of the PCC Office will continue to cost less than the former Police Authority – ensuring that people will get even better value for money from the new arrangements.