Bedfordshire chief constable moving to MoD Police

The chief constable of Bedfordshire is moving to lead the Ministry of Defence (MoD) Police.

Alf Hitchcock, who has led Bedfordshire Police since January 2011, has not yet confirmed when he will take up his new position.

Mr Hitchcock said he was “incredibly proud” of the work the force has achieved during his stay.

“The force has undergone significant change and overcome many challenges over the last two years, but as a result Bedfordshire is a county where crime is reducing, detections are increasing, and public satisfaction in what we do is rising,” he said.

“I know that the fantastic colleagues I am leaving will continue to fight crime and protect the public with the commitment and enthusiasm that I have been so proud to have been a part of.”

Olly Martins, police and crime commissioner (PCC) for Bedfordshire, paid tribute to Mr Hitchcock, saying he was “impressed by the strength and quality of leadership” of the service in the county.

“Alf leaves a force that is both cutting crime and delivering rising levels of victim satisfaction with the service they receive from the police,” he said.

“My job now is to secure the best chief constable for Bedfordshire that I can, who will build on the firm foundations that have been laid by Alf, and with whom I look forward to forging a similarly close working relationship.”

David Riddle, chair of the MoD Police Committee, said the force was “delighted” to appoint Mr Hitchcock.

“We are convinced that Alf has the experience, skills and character to provide dynamic leadership to the force through the next phase of its transformation,” he said.

“Under Alf’s leadership, MoD Police will continue to build its specialist policing role in the security of the most vital defence assets, estate and people, and to deliver excellent value for money.”