West Mercia Police Chief Constable David Shaw to stand down
The head of West Mercia Police is to step down this summer - it has been announced.
Chief Constable David Shaw has described his time with the force as "amongst the toughest, but also the happiest" of his service.
A policeman for more than 30 years, including a stint at West Midlands Police, Mr Shaw will retire on July 3. He assumed the position of Chief Constable in August 2011.
Mr Shaw said: "It has been an extraordinary privilege to have been part of two teams looking after the communities of West Midlands and West Mercia policing areas.
"Even after 36 years as a police officer, it is impossible to describe the sense of pride and admiration for what officers and staff achieve every single day. Their courage, humanity and desire to do the right thing remain inspiring.
"The eight years I have had with West Mercia have been amongst the toughest but also happiest of my service.
"I will be leaving with a feeling of genuine affection for this force, the people I work with and the area I serve."
Mr Shaw began his working life in West Midlands Police rising to the rank of Assistant Chief Constable before joining West Mercia Police in 2008 as Deputy Chief Constable.
He said he will spend his last few months leading the force along with training his successor and preparing for the appointment of a new Police and Crime Commissioner.
The current commissioner, Bill Longmore has paid tribute to Mr Shaw, describing his as "right up there with the very best."
