Cumbria’s DCC preferred candidate to be next chief constable

He will succeed Michelle Skeer QPM, who taking up the dual role of His Majesty’s Inspector of Constabulary in England and Wales and Inspector of Fire and Rescue in England.

Mr Carden, who has been deputy chief constable since March 2022, has more than 30 years’ policing experience since following in his father’s footsteps and joining Merseyside Police in 1992.

Cumbria’s police, fire and crime commissioner Peter McCall said: “The candidates for chief constable demonstrated exceptional knowledge and a passion for policing, this was a competitive process which makes the selection process a difficult decision for the appointments panel.

“I am pleased to announce Rob Carden as my preferred candidate for chief constable.”

Ms Skeer added: “I would like to offer my congratulations to Rob for being the preferred candidate for the next chief constable for Cumbria.

“I have enjoyed working with him, he has shown dedication and commitment in keeping our local communities in Cumbria safe.”

Mr McCall said his decision followed a “rigorous selection process by a panel with professional policing knowledge and an understanding of the criminal justice system in Cumbria”.

The appointment will now be subject to a Police, Fire and Crime Panel confirmatory hearing on June 29.