Wiltshire's chief constable to retire next year

The Chief Constable of Wiltshire Police who lead the force's response to the nerve agent attack in Salisbury is to retire after 30 years of service.

Kier Pritchard has spent his entire career with the force after joining as a 19 year old.

He was appointed Chief Constable on 5th March 2018 the day after the Skripals were found poisoned by Novichok in the city and just as a major incident was declared.

He's described leading the force as 'the greatest privilege of my professional career.'

"It really has been an honour serving the communities of Wiltshire. This county is very close to my heart, it is my home, it is where my family have grown up, and it is where I have followed in the footstep of my late father in joining Wiltshire Police at the age of 19 in 1993."

The force was recently moved into special measures after a damning report by the police watchdog.

Serious concerns were raised as to how it protects vulnerable people, responds to the public and makes use of its resources

Mr Pritchard says it was always his intention to retire at 30 years' service so he can 'look to the next stage of life with my family.'

He also says he remains fully committed to leading the force between now and June 2023.

"There is still a great deal to do as we seek to deliver service-wide improvements arising from the recent HMICFRS PEEL inspection programme. Whilst solid progress is being made, I remain resolutely focused on continuing with our programme of improvement and supporting the Police and Crime Commissioner in the delivery of the Police and Crime Plan."

Praised for dedication

Wiltshire’s Police and Crime Commissioner Philip Wilkinson thanked Chief Constable Kier Pritchard for his dedication to policing.

"It has been evident to me, since I became PCC, just how much Kier loves policing and has relished being at the helm of Wiltshire Police.

“Under his leadership, Wiltshire Police faced one of the most challenging periods of its history with the nerve agent attack on Salisbury - not many Chief Constables can say they successfully dealt with an international incident on their first day in the job.

“I have enjoyed my time working closely with Kier and wish him all the best for the future with whatever challenges he chooses to take once retirement happens. In the meantime, we both remained focused on improving Wiltshire Police, delivering the police and crime plan and leading the force through the Engage process while proactively addressing those areas of concern raised in the latest PEEL assessment.”

The Police and Crime Commissioner is responsible for the recruitment of the next Chief Constable.

More information on this process will be made available by his office shortly to ensure a seamless transition for the public.