AFTER three years as chief constable in Dorset, and more than 33 years’ service to policing, Amanda Pearson will retire this summer.

Chief constable Pearson said it was an honour and a privilege to lead the force in the place where she lives.

“With enormous gratitude and a strong sense of pride in the work of Dorset Police, I have decided to retire,” she added.

“I would like to thank everyone – all officers, staff and volunteers – who have inspired me day and night to serve, and to the people of Dorset who have given me their time and support.

“Dorset remains one of the safest places in the country. The number of crimes we solve continues to rise.

“The service we give to victims and our communities is getting stronger and stronger.

“And we have, year-on-year, showed resilience and pragmatism to balance our budgets in challenging times.”

She thanked the Police and Crime Commissioner David Sidwick, who will begin recruitment of a new chief constable “very soon”.