Suffolk Chief Constable Douglas Paxton has been on sick leave for six months today.

Mr Paxton’s leave started on December 16 last year – and his continued absence from his office will trigger a review of his situation by constabulary officials.

This is a normal procedure for any police officer who is away from work for six months. The review will decide whether he should continue to receive his full salary or whether he should be earning half pay.

The decision will be determined by the police, not by the office of Police and Crime Commissioner Tim Passmore.

Mr Passmore said: “Our Chief Constable, Douglas Paxton remains on sick leave and at this point we do not know how long this will continue.

“To cover Douglas’ absence our Deputy Chief Constable Gareth Wilson has been made temporary Chief Constable and we have also secured a temporary Deputy Chief Constable to cover Gareth’s substantive post.

“This provides the resilience we need to continue to provide an efficient and effective police service for the people of Suffolk.

“The absence of any police officer is managed in line with police regulations and Douglas is subject to the same process.”

No details have been revealed about the nature of his illness although Mr Passmore has said he wishes Mr Paxton well in his recovery.

Mr Wilson is now overseeing the biggest financial upheaval in Suffolk Constabulary’s history.

Its budget needs to be slashed by total £20.5million over the next five years. This will lead to radical changes in the way the force is structured and operates.

Stephen Jupp is standing in as temporary deputy chief constable for Mr Wilson. Mr Jupp was seconded from his role as assistant chief constable at Nottinghamshire Police.