Derbyshire's new Chief Constable confirmed

Mrs Swann led the response to the Toddbrook Reservoir emergency in Whaley Bridge last August – when more than 1,500 residents in the town had to leave their homes for several days over fears the dam could collapse.

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She was previously Derbyshire Constabulary’s Deputy Chief Constable and her appointment to the top job has now been approved by Derbyshire’s Police and Crime Panel.

Mrs Swan said: “I’m absolutely delighted to be Derbyshire’s new Chief Constable.

“During my time as deputy I have seen just how remarkable the communities across the county are – from the incredible resilience of those in Whaley Bridge, to the brilliant community work during the flooding late last year, to the current unprecedented national Covid-19 emergency which has seen fantastic examples of our communities and partnerships pulling together.

“Those same emergencies have also shown the incredible dedication and professionalism of the officers and staff that I am now so proud to lead.”

Mrs Swann takes over from Peter Goodman, who has retired after a 32-year career in policing.

She added: “I have, from former Chief Constable Peter Goodman, inherited a force that is well set to face the many challenges that policing faces in the modern age, that is moving towards better representing those communities that we serve, fighting crime, bringing offenders to justice and protect those most at risk from criminality and harm in its many forms.”

Hardyal Dhindsa, Derbyshire’s Police and Crime Commissioner, said Mrs Swann will be an ‘exceptional Chief Constable, totally focussed on keeping our communities safe’.

He added: “Her refreshing and positive approach to partnership working has been put to the test in the most challenging of circumstances including the major incident at Toddbrook Reservoir and as leader of the local resilience forum during the pandemic.

“She is now the first female Chief Constable of Derbyshire Constabulary and a diversity champion in her own right.

“I am aware that she has inspired other young women to follow in her footsteps and join the police force and I am proud to have her on my team.”

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