CHRISTOPHER Salmon has been named as the first ever Police & Crime Commissioner for Dyfed Powys, covering Hay-on-Wye, Presteigne, Knighton and surrounding villages.

Turn out was just under 17 per cent and it is understood that nearly 3,000 of those votes (4.3%) were spoiled.

In his role as commissioner, Mr Salmon will be responsible for setting the strategic direction for Dyfed-Powys Police and scrutinising its performance on behalf of the public.

"We face a number of challenges in the coming years, not least financial challenges, but I am determined we can emerge stronger, leaner and better," he said.

The Commissioner will take his oath of office on November 20 before officially taking up his new role on November 22, taking over from the Police Authority that will cease to exist from that date.