‘Open and ethical’ chief constable to ‘hand over the reins’

Chief Constable Simon Edens will leave Northamptonshire Police in six months’ time, having spent three years in the top role.

Northamptonshire PCC Stephen Mold said Mr Edens made a “significant impact” at the force, especially in the development of a new policing model.

He added: “I want to personally pay tribute and say thank you to Simon for all his hard work. He has ensured that the foundations are now in place to better meet the challenging demands required of a modern police force and in turn make Northamptonshire safer.

“His contribution to policing for the past 37 years has been outstanding, and since 2015 he has served Northamptonshire Police and the people of the county with great distinction.

“I want to thank him on behalf of the people of Northamptonshire for his enthusiasm, determination, professionalism, and belief in policing, during unprecedented periods of challenge and change.

“I wish him every success and happiness in his retirement.”

Mr Edens began his career in Northern Ireland in 1981 serving as a constable and sergeant with the Royal Ulster Constabulary before moving to England ten years later.

Following a 17-year career with Cambridgeshire Constabulary, where he worked his way up to the rank of chief superintendent, he was appointed assistant chief constable at both West Mercia and Warwickshire Police as part of the strategic alliance between the two forces.

In 2012 he served as the deputy chief constable of Leicestershire Police, moving to Northamptonshire Police three years later as chief constable.

Mr Edens reflected on the “significant changes” during his time in office, including making Wootton Hall the force’s new permanent headquarters and opening a new operational facility in Kettering.

“It has been a huge privilege and an honour to serve as chief constable for Northamptonshire and to have worked alongside colleagues from across the force who do so much to protect people from harm every day,” he added.

“However, I believe the time is now right for me to hand over the reins to a new chief who will take the force forward over the next five years.

“I will miss hugely the officers, staff and volunteers who I have had the honour of leading these past three years.”

Lyndsay Smith, UNISON branch secretary, said: “UNISON have thoroughly enjoyed working with Simon since he joined the force.

“We have benefitted from Simon’s open and honest manner and have been able to bring many issues affecting police staff to his attention, which he has taken seriously.

“We wish him the very best in his retirement and thank him for his dedication to police staff in Northants.”

Chair of Northamptonshire Police Federation Steve Pace added: “The Federation would like to wish Chief Constable Edens all the very best as he embarks on an exciting new chapter with his pending retirement.

“Simon’s legacy will be his open and ethical management style, which has been highly valued by our members. We have enjoyed working with him and wish him well in the future.”

Mr Edens’ final day at Northamptonshire Police will be October 28.