The new role has been created after the coronavirus outbreak postponed PCC elections

Avon and Somerset Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC), Sue Mountstevens has announced the appointment of a new deputy.

After a three-week recruitment process, John Smith has been selected to take on the reigns as deputy police and crime commissioner.

Avon and Somerset police stated that the newly formed role was done ‘to provide support to the PCC during the unexpected extension to her tenure, following the postponement of the election, due to Covid-19’.

John Smith, former chief executive of the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner in Avon and Somerset, formally takes up his post on April 24.

John said: “I am excited to be supporting Sue in carrying out her role as PCC.

“I will work closely with the PCC team - to make sure that residents get the best possible police and crime services at this unprecedented time.”