LANCASHIRE Police Authority has appointed Paul Stephenson to the post of Chief Constable of the Lancashire Constabulary.

He will take up office at the end of July when Pauline Clare completes her seven-year term of office.

Currently Deputy Chief Constable in Lancashire, Mr Stephenson, 48, has served with the Lancashire and Merseyside forces and was also seconded to the Royal Ulster Constabulary for a six month period in 1992.

Starting his career as a constable in Burnley, he has also served in Bacup, Accrington, Preston and at the force headquarters in Hutton.

He led the response to last year's disturbances in Burnley.

During his time with Merseyside Police he commanded many major operations, including successive Grand Nationals, industrial disputes and anti-terrorist operations Chairman of the Lancashire Police Authority, County Councillor Dr Ruth Henig, said: "I'm delighted to welcome Paul Stephenson as our new Chief Constable.

"We interviewed three first class candidates before reaching our decision.

The role of leading the Constabulary in this new era of change is a challenging one.

I know Paul will meet that challenge, and will take the police force in Lancashire forward."