LANCASHIRE Police’s new Assistant Chief Constable had to start his role early because of the London Riots.

Peter White was due to be promoted to the rank of Ass Ch Con on September 1, after Wendy Walker retired, but due to over-stretched resources and the unprecedented scenes in London, the former Chief Supt got to work sooner.

A police spokesman said: “As a result of the intense level of disorder experienced in London and in other parts of the country, Lancashire Police Authority took the decision to bring forward Chief Supt White’s promotion.

“ACC White led the Lancashire response to the disorder in London, acting as the Gold commander for our contingency and reassurance operations.”