Hampshire Police and Crime Panel (PCP) has a new chairman, who was elected at a meeting of the panel on July 2.

Simon Bound was appointed following five years as a member of the PCP, which was established in 2011.

He is also the deputy leader of Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council and following his appointment he said: “I am delighted to be elected chairman of the Police and Crime Panel and the important role we undertake to serve the people of Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, representing their interests and priorities when scrutinising the work of the Police and Crime Commissioner.

“I look forward to working alongside the new Police and Crime Commissioner Donna Jones and reviewing the new draft Police and Crime Plan, ensuring it serves the best interests of the community.”

Donna Jones was elected in May and oversees police and crime policy, and although answerable to the electorate, the panel is responsible for reviewing and scrutinising her actions and decisions, as well as supporting her.

For more information about the panel visit the website at https://www.hants.gov.uk/aboutthecouncil/governmentinhampshire/police-crime-panel