A new Police and Crime Commissioner has been elected for Bedfordshire.

John Tizard will take up the role officially on Thursday 9 May, after he was the successful Labour candidate in the public Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) elections, which took place yesterday, (Thursday 2 May). 

The PCC is elected by the people of Bedfordshire and has an important role in holding Bedfordshire’s Chief Constable to account for delivering an efficient and effective police service. The PCC is also responsible for championing the needs of victims of crime and the vulnerable, and working with partners and local services to ensure that help and support are available to them.     

Mr Tizard said: “I am delighted to have been elected by the people of Bedfordshire to serve as their Police and Crime Commissioner. I look forward to working with the police and also holding the Chief Constable to account.” 

The Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner will now begin working with Mr Tizard to develop a new Police and Crime Plan, which will be consulted on with partners and the public later this year.    

The declaration of acceptance of office was made by Mr Tizard immediately after the result of the election was declared and was witnessed by Police Area Returning Officer Robin Porter.