The new chief constable of Sussex Police has been appointed.

Current temporary chief constable Giles York has now been confirmed by the Sussex Police and Crime Panel as the new permanent chief of the service.

The 47-year-old said: "I'm delighted to be appointed Chief Constable. I'm passionate about Sussex and want the force to provide the best possible policing, with the support of our partners.

"The level of support I have had from colleagues and partners across the county has been overwhelming.

"My aim is to ensure that we deliver the best policing to keep people safe."

He has been temporary Chief Constable for Sussex Police since March this year.

He was previously Deputy Chief Constable since 2008 with responsibility for performance, engagement, reputation, change and risk management. He is married to Sally and has two daughters and a son.

Police & Crime Commissioner Katy Bourne said:"Mr York has exceptional experience of policing, having held a number of positions in senior leadership.

"Throughout the recruitment process he showed a passion for Sussex, its people and police force and I am pleased that this has been recognised by the Panel.

"I have every confidence in his capabilities to lead Sussex Police in the future and I look forward to working with him to deliver the priorities within the Police & Crime Plan 'Safer in Sussex'."

Giles York and Katy Bourne will be embarking on a series of Meet your Chief and Commissioner public events beginning on 12 August at 6pm at Hove Town Hall.

Mr York said: "I have agreed with the commissioner three key priorities for my role in the coming year. The first is protecting vulnerable people - those who come to us for assistance and help. It's down to us to protect them.

"While doing that we need to bring those who are causing that harm to justice.

"Another priority is to respond to the national challenge around ethics and professionalism in everything we do.

"The third is planning for the future, innovating and transforming policing so we have an effective and affordable model going forward.

"It is a challenge but one we are doing all we can to meet."