The proposed candidate to be the next chief constable of Essex Police has been selected following an “open and rigourous” recruitment process.

Ben-Julian (BJ) Harrington has been named as the preferred candidate for the role and the appointment is subject to a confirmation hearing by the Police, Fire and Crime panel which will meet on June 28.

Roger Hirst, police, fire and crime commissioner for Essex, said: “Following a rigorous and transparent recruitment process, I’m pleased to announce Mr Harrington as my proposed candidate for the role of chief constable of Essex Police.

“Mr Harrington will bring a wealth of experience to the role and has made a significant impact since joining Essex Police as temporary deputy chief constable in April 2017.

“Mr Harrington is an outstanding leader who comes to this role with over 27 years of operational experience both in Essex and in the Metropolitan Police Service.

“During the interview process Mr Harrington clearly demonstrated his leadership and his strong commitment to Essex Police.”