THE DEPUTY Police and Crime Commissioner for Northumbria Mark Dennett has retired from his role, it has been announced.

The former Northumbria Police chief superintendent, who headed up both South Tyneside and Northumberland Area Commands, played a key role in developing the office of the police and crime commissioner.

He said today (Monday, February 24): “It’s been great working at the Northumbria Office of the police and crime commissioner and I’ve enjoyed the 14 months I have worked there.

“While I had intended to retire when I left Northumbria Police this was too good an opportunity not to be involved with and it’s been a privilege to be involved in a new role and chapter in policing.

“I was pleased to be able to use my 30 years as a serving Northumbria Police officer to help the commissioner better understand the force and the demands made upon it.”

Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner Vera Baird, who appointed Mr Dennett when she took up her post in November 2012, said: “I’m very sorry to see Mark go as he has provided me with invaluable advice since I appointed him as my deputy.

“He brought with him a wealth of experience which I have put to good use in my first 14 months in the role and he will be a big miss."