A new chief constable for Devon and Cornwall Police has been formally sworn in.

Will Kerr has taken over from Shaun Sawyer, who left the role in August.

Chief Constable Kerr has previously served in Northern Ireland’s police service and as deputy of Police Scotland.

Police and Crime Commissioner Alison Hernandez said: “One of the reasons why I appointed him as the chief constable is because he’s very keen on getting the basics right, he’s very keen on serving our communities.

“I think what we’ll start to see is a lot more visibility of police officers, which is exactly what our community wants to see.”

She added: “He and I are keen that the force refocuses on the basics, tackling the types of crime that most affect people.

“Two years ago, when I asked the public to help me set priorities for the police and crime plan, setting the strategic direction of the force, they were clear that anti-social behaviour, drug dealing and road safety were issues that our communities most wanted tackling where they lived.”

Devon and Cornwall Police tweeted: “He signed his Memorandum of Appointment and swore his attestation oath to officially begin his role as Devon and Cornwall Police Chief Constable.”