HEREFORDSHIRE'S police force has appointed a temporary chief constable to take over when its current one leaves next month.

Pippa Mills will leave the force on October 22, and Alex Murray, the deputy chief constable, will temporarily take over as the West Mercia Police chief until a permanent replacement is appointed.

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DCC Murray said: "It is a huge honour. I have big shoes to fill but the public can be reassured that our focus remains on reducing crime and bringing more offenders to justice."

He was previously a commander at the Metropolitan Police, serving as the violence lead and working in specialist crime.

John Campion, the police and crime commissioner, said: "I know that Alex Murray will be the leader the force, and public, needs to take it through this transitional period.

"He will also be able to continue delivering the work Pippa Mills has been doing to deliver a high-quality policing service for the communities of West Mercia."