Christopher Salmon has today been named as the first ever Police & Crime Commissioner for Dyfed Powys.

The result was officially announced by the Police Area Returning Officer, Bryn Parry Jones, following yesterday’s election (Thursday November 15th)

Commissioners mark the biggest change in the governance of policing in England & Wales in almost 200 years. As Commissioner, Mr Salmon will be responsible for setting the strategic direction for Dyfed-Powys Police and scrutinising its performance on behalf of the public.

Mr Salmon, said: “"It is a great privilege to be elected as the first Police and Crime Commissioner for Dyfed Powys. I am extremely grateful for the trust people have shown in me. We face a number of challenges in the coming years, not least financial challenges, but I am determined we can emerge stronger, leaner and better. I look forward to working with the wonderful women and men of the police, the voluntary sector and other parts of government.

“Police and Crime Commissioners are an important reform to our local government. Like all such changes they are also controversial. To those who still harbour doubts, I am listening. I will work to ensure that the role becomes an influential, respected and - most importantly - effective position."

The Chief Constable of Dyfed-Powys Police will retain operational independence and will continue to deliver policing services that meet the priorities set by the Commissioner on behalf of the public.

Jackie Roberts, Chief Constable DPP, said: “I congratulate Mr Salmon on his new appointment and I look forward to working with him as the new Commissioner.

“The Force will work closely with the Commissioner in order to tackle crime and anti-social behaviour and to safeguard and provide reassurance for all our communities.”

The Commissioner will take his oath of office on November 20th before officially taking up his new role on November 22, taking over from the Police Authority that will cease to exist from this date.