A POLICE chief has described the challenge of letting go of his profession on his last day as an officer.

Chief Constable Giles York has worked in policing for 30 years and had his last day leading the force in Sussex today.

He said that while policing can mean putting oneself in harm’s way, it can also become an “addiction” to work with people and serve the community every day.

Mr York, a father-of-three, took over in Sussex in 2014, having previously served as the Deputy Chief Constable. He has previously received the Queen’s Policing Medal for his services.

Earlier this year The Argus reported on how he had risked his own life to help a man who had taken a cocaine overdose.

On his last day he said: “Policing comes with two health warnings. We do put ourselves in the way of harm, however Sussex Police is well equipped to look after you physically and mentally when this occurs.

“Policing is an addiction; it is a difficult passion to let go of.”

Mr York admitted he has faced challenges over police cuts during most of his time at the top, and has battled to keep up the morale of officers and service to the public.

He said he was proud to have given his force a voice on the national and international stage, with improving how the force responds and has become a champion of diversity including a top 100 employer ranked by LGBT charity Stonewall.

Mr York said: “One of the greatest privileges of being a police officer is the access that you are allowed.

“Sometimes that is access to places where no one else can go.

“But more often it is the access you are allowed into people’s lives and the trust they show you.

“Policing is always about building relationships... engaging, communicating and caring whether that is with victims, organisations or each and every one of my own staff.”

Sussex Police and Crime Commissioner Katy Bourne said: “Having steered Sussex Police through some difficult times his legacy is a compassionate, intelligent police force that people are proud to work for and that always strives to do the right thing.”