CHESHIRE Police is seeking applicants for its vacant chief constable position.

The force has been without a chief constable since previous incumbent Simon Byrne was suspended in summer last year amid accusations that he had bullied and humiliated staff.

While a verdict from a gross misconduct hearing into Mr Byrne’s actions is still awaited, his contract with Cheshire Police has since lapsed and a new chief constable is now being sought.

Janette McCormick has held the post of acting chief constable with the force since Mr Byrne’s suspension.

Cheshire police and crime commissioner David Keane said: “Cheshire Constabulary is a top performing police service which has consistently achieved positive ratings from HMICRFS and has what I believe to be the best group of police officers, staff, specials and volunteers in the country.

“As the county’s police and crime commissioner, I am fully committed to ensuring that Cheshire remains one of the safest counties in the country and I am looking for an exceptional individual who shares this vision.

“I want to work with our new chief constable to build on our strong foundations and tackle head-on the complex and challenging environment in which modern day policing is operating.

“The new chief constable must have the passion and necessary skills to work with me to establish a policing culture which promotes innovation, is compassionate to both our residents and its staff and seeks to make the most out of our highly valued partnerships.”

Cheshire Police will hold an engagement day for candidates considering applying to the role.

The deadline for applications is 5pm on Wednesday, December 12.

Mr Keane added: “Policing is more challenging and complex than ever and I need a chief constable who recognises this and is able operate effectively in an environment of diminishing resources.

“The new chief constable must be up for that challenge and must be committed to delivering the best police service for our residents and the communities of Cheshire.”