SOUTH Wales Police have appointed a new assistant chief constable — Richard Lewis.
Mr Lewis, from Neath, joined the force in 1987, and began his career walking the beat in Porthcawl before rising through the ranks and filling a number of posts — both uniform and CID — in Swansea, Bridgend, Neath and Port Talbot, and Cardiff, and latterly in force headquarters.
The 48-year-old, was picked for the assistant's job by chief constable Peter Vaughan.
Mr Vaughan said: "I have worked with Richard for many years now and know he adds enormous strength to an already strong senior team.
"He has South Wales Police at his core and brings valuable personal and professional qualities into his new role
"He has operational credibility as well as a great strategic brain and I know all the team are looking forward to having him as a permanent member."
Mr Lewis takes over as one of the force's three assistant chief constables from Nick Croft, who retired in June last year.
Mr Lewis, whop followed in the footsteps of his father by joining South Wales Police, said he was very proud to have got the job.
He said: " I am delighted to be working alongside such a great team and I look forward to continuing to support the work of our officers in making South Wales an ever safer place to live and work.
"I have spent my entire policing career with South Wales Police and I am immensely proud of the opportunity to serve as its assistant chief constable."
Last month the Evening Post asked the force how many people had applied for the job — which comes with a salary of £90,726 to £105,849 — but it declined, saying it would be "inappropriate" to do so.
