A NORTH-EAST police force has appointed two new assistant chief constables.

Northumbria Police Authority has promoted Carolyn Peacock and Gregory Vant following interviews at Gateshead Civic Centre.

Ms Peacock was previously a superintendent and area commander for Newcastle West before being promoted to chief superintendent two years ago.

Mr Vant was formerly a detective superintendent in charge of the force's crime teams, which investigated serious and organised crime before he become a detective chief superintendent, in 2003.

Chairman of Northumbria Police Authority, Councillor Mick Henry, said: "This is good news for local people as both these appointments will considerably strengthen our top team and help improve policing in Northumbria.

"We were fortunate to get two such strong candidates who will help improve what is already one of the best police forces in the country."