CHIEF Constable of Wiltshire Police, Pat Geenty, has announced his intention to retire from his position with the Force.

On Monday, Mr Geenty informed the Police and Crime Commissioner for Wiltshire and Swindon, Angus Macpherson, of his decision to retire in May of this year.

Mr Geenty joined Wiltshire Police in July 2009 and was appointed substantive Chief Constable of the Force in May 2012.

Pat Geenty, Chief Constable, said: “Policing has been a fundamental part of my life for the past 33 years so this has been an extremely difficult decision for me to make.

“However, after considerable soul-searching, I feel confident that this is the right thing for me to do.

“I am entirely certain that I am leaving the Force in capable hands and wish to reassure the public that there is a clear plan for the future of Wiltshire Police.

Angus Macpherson, Police and Crime Commissioner for Wiltshire and Swindon, said: “Firstly, I would like to thank Mr Geenty for his hard work, professionalism and total commitment to his role as Chief Constable of Wiltshire Police.

“While I am personally disappointed to be losing an exceptional officer and leader, I fully understand and respect his decision to retire.

“I will now begin to consider the continuity plan for the Force to ensure that Wiltshire Police are able to maintain consistency in leadership. I will update further once I have made a decision.”