New DCC knows Derbyshire ‘like the back of his hand’

A senior officer has rejoined his native Derbyshire Constabulary after spending just a year with another force. Gary Knighton was “born and bred” in the county but left last April to serve as deputy chief constable of Lincolnshire Police. Now he is set to return to Derbyshire Constabulary at the same rank and will take over from Peter Goodman, who will become the chief constable in June. Before his stint in Lincolnshire, Mr Knighton spent almost his entire 27-year police career with Derbyshire Constabulary, barring a short period with Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary. He still lives in the county with his family. Mr Knighton said: “I am delighted to be returning to Derbyshire as deputy chief constable. “I have many happy memories spent in the county during my 27 years’ service and am looking forward to, once again, serving the communities of this wonderful county.” Mr Knighton has previously served as area commander for the Derbyshire Dales and Peak District, and has led on the East Midlands region’s contact management and Special Constabulary. He is currently the National Police Chiefs’ Council lead for Criminal Justice performance. Outgoing Chief Constable Mick Creedon said: “Throughout his policing career, Gary has served up and down the county and he knows Derbyshire like the back of his hand – he is an experienced police officer, a serving deputy chief constable and he is utterly committed to the people of this county. “He is an excellent appointment to the role of deputy chief constable and will work brilliantly with Peter Goodman who takes up the post of chief constable next Thursday.” Lincolnshire Police Chief Constable Bill Skelly congratulated Mr Knighton on his new appointment. “We wish him very well in his new role and I’m very grateful for all the work he’s put in in Lincolnshire over the last year,” he added. “He leaves the force in a very good position.”