Notts Police Authority chair to step down
Nottinghamshire Police Authoritys chair has announced that he will step down from the post this summer.
Nottinghamshire Police Authoritys chair has announced that he will step down from the post this summer.
Councillor John Clarke sent his resignation letter to fellow authority members on February 24. The reason for his resignation has not been made clear, but he has said he will continue the role in the wake of the forces capability review from Her Majestys Inspectorate of Constabulary (HMIC), which he believes will lead to several changes, but wont stand for re-election in June.
The news comes less than three months after David Wilcock, the police authoritys interim chief executive, left before the end of his contract.
Mr Clarke said: It has been a demanding, exciting and testing ten years. It has also been incredibly fulfilling. I would like to thank all those who have supported me, particularly over the last few months, which have been especially challenging for both Nottinghamshire Police and the police authority. Despite some well publicised issues, it remains an undisputed fact that crime in the county is falling we are in the seventh consecutive year of reductions and the number of detections is increasing. That was what we were tasked with achieving.
A demanding change programme will be introduced in the immediate future and I will step aside for a new chair at the next AGM, having helped the authority to put some firm foundations for improvement in place. I will, however, remain on the authority and fully support my successor.
Chief Constable Julia Hodson said: John Clarke has proved himself to be a dedicated and committed chairman of the authority and I am saddened to learn of his intention to step down, but respect his decision. He has been a staunch guardian of the authoritys independence, and a fierce advocate of neighbourhood policing.
Fellow authority member Chris Barnfather said: His passion, commitment and enthusiasm for policing in Nottinghamshire are unrivalled and to have held the chair for so long is testament to his ability. As a former officer Im aware of the high regard serving officers and staff have for him.