KENT'S Acting Deputy Chief Constable Adrian Leppard has been appointed permanently to the role.

Mr Leppard began his police career in 1984 with Surrey Police. He spent the most of his service as a detective and rose through the ranks to become an area commander.

In 2005 he was selected as the Assistant Chief Constable responsible for specialist operations in Kent.

He later to played a key role in overseeing the investigation into the £53million Tonbridge robbery. He then switched portfolios and took charge of area operations, including managing the continuing growth of neighbourhood policing in Kent.

Commenting on his new appointment, Mr Leppard said: "Kent Police is a successful force and I am particularly proud to be taking on this important role.

"I relish the challenges ahead and have a real desire to work with the chief officer team and continue to build a policing service that has the confidence and respect of our local communities."

Chief Constable Mike Fuller said: "I very much look forward to working with Adrian as my deputy. He brings to the role enormous experience in many different aspects of policing.

"His skills and qualities have already added considerable value to the high calibre team we have here in Kent.

"Adrian is highly respected among colleagues and has brought with him sound operational experience from the last 23 years."

Ann Barnes, chair of the Kent Police Authority, said: "Adrian is not afraid to challenge issues and brings with him excellent skills and clear commitment.

"He has made a huge impact in neighbourhood policing and played a significant role in the investigation after the Tonbridge robbery last year."