Chief Constable of Gwent Julian Williams is to retire in June after two years in the role.

He says it was ’a huge privilege’ to work for the force for the last five years and ’a real honour’ to be promoted to the top job.

"I have always been impressed by the commitment, energy and professionalism displayed by my colleagues, who despite very challenging circumstances, always strive to put the public first in everything they do," he said.  

"Recent years have seen the force adapt to rising demand and a challenging financial picture, with the changes made ensuring that the force is in a very strong position to deal with the complexities of serious crime, vulnerability and public confidence."

He added that the Police and Crime Commissioner, Jeff Cuthbert, had been ’extremely supportive’ during his time as Chief and his Police and Crime Plan demonstrated his commitment to further improving the service.

"I am extremely proud to be a police officer and consider myself lucky to have conducted my 30 years’ service within Wales, serving communities I know really well," he said.

Mr Cuthbert said he understood the reasons why the chief constable had decided to retire but was sorry that he had decided to do so.

"Julian has been a very effective leader of Gwent Police and has displayed professionalism, tempered with compassion, at all times.  I will miss him being at the helm of Gwent Police greatly," he said. "He has demonstrated his clear commitment to protecting the most vulnerable in our communities and his decision to create a special unit to help eradicate human trafficking and modern slavery is an excellent example.

"I am sure there will be many opportunities for him to continue to contribute positively to Welsh public life in the future, although in a different capacity."Â