THE man who is now in charge of policing across Worcestershire officially took office today.

Bill Longmore was elected as the first Police and Crime Commissioner for West Mercia earlier this month.

His appointment signals a new era in local policing governance and he will now be responsible for controlling the budget and setting police priorities.

He will also have the power to hire and fire chief constables, but will not be involved in the operational side of the force.

Mr Longmore said: “I am really excited about my new role and I am particularly looking forward to making a real difference to local policing."

He took the Police and Crime Commissioner oath of office with Robin Durham JP, vice chair of the West Mercia Police Authority, after the election on Friday, November 16.

For further information about the PCC visit westmercia-pcc.gov.uk