by Helen Fairley

The Chief Constable of Kent Police is to step down from his post to take up a new role with the Crown Prosecution Service.

Ann Barnes, chair of the Kent Police Authority, has announced the retirement of Chief Constable Michael Fuller from the force.

Mr Fuller, who has been Kent Police Chief Constable for six years, will now take up the post of HM Crown Prosecution Service Chief Inspector in April.

Mrs Barnes said: "Since his appointment here in Kent (Mr Fuller) has made a significant difference in raising the profile of the force. His work has led to a number of successes including neighbourhood policing, introduction of task teams, and our collaboration work with Essex Police.

"I would like to congratulate Mr Fuller on his new appointment and wish him every success in the future. He will be missed but we have a strong senior team here in Kent who will take us forward in 2010."

Mrs Barnes said the force were fortunate to have a "very experienced and capable" deputy in Adrian Leppard, who will be stepping up to the role of temporary chief constable.

It is anticipated that a new, permanent, chief constable will be in position by the end of the summer.