AN EXPERIENCED police officer said he feels 'honoured' to be appointed boss of Thames Valley Police.

John Campbell has been confirmed as the successor to Francis Habgood, and is set to fill his role as chief constable of the force.

His appointment was cemented today with approval from the independent Thames Valley Police and Crime Panel.

Mr Campbell is the currently the deputy chief constable of the force, a position he has held since 2015.

He said he felt 'honoured' to be promoted to the helm, adding: "The force is made up of some amazing men and women, and I look forward to leading those who work tirelessly every day, with great courage, to police the area.

"Having been a chief officer with the force for some nine years, I believe I have a strong understanding of the communities of the Thames Valley and the type of police force needed to best protect them from harm.

"I will build on the excellent work already implemented by the outgoing chief, Francis Habgood, and will do all that I can to deliver the quality of policing that the public quite rightly expect and deserve."

Mr Campbell was selected as the police and crime commissioner's preferred candidate last month.

READ AGAIN: John Campbell preferred choice to be new TVP chief constable

Anthony Stansfeld, police and crime commissioner, said: “I am delighted that the Police and Crime Panel supported my choice of John Campbell to be the next chief constable of Thames Valley Police.

"He has done an excellent job as deputy chief constable and I believe is the right person to lead Thames Valley Police through what is a turbulent period for policing.

"I look forward to working closely with him as chief constable in the delivery of my strategic priorities and ensuring an efficient and effective police force for the communities of the Thames Valley."

Francis Habgood is set to retire at the end of March after four years in the post, 15 years within the force and more than 32 years in the police service.

READ AGAIN: Thames Valley Police chief Francis Habgood announces retirement

He announced his retirement in October and said it had been an 'honour to serve.'