Police force picks two outsiders for top job

The force says the applicants were whittled down from seven who made it to the interview stage after 67 people put themselves forward. Candidates came from industries including the military, local government and private business.

The two successful applicants will in July attend the National Assessment Centre in Bramshill, Hampshire, where they will be tested to ensure they are fit to become one of the most senior officers in the force.

It comes after West Yorkshire Police rejected all 47 candidates applying to become a superintendent under the scheme, which was introduced to widen the talent pool in policing nationally.

Critics say the policy means people with minimal experiencing of policing could be left in charge of major incidents, where lives are on the line.

Assistant Chief Constable Paul Kennedy, of North Yorkshire Police, said: “The calibre of the candidates who applied for the Direct Entry Programme was very impressive and I am delighted that so many talented individuals showed an interest in working for North Yorkshire Police.

“The selection process was extremely tough, which it needed to be to ensure we are putting the right applicants through to the next stage, and I am really pleased that we have identified two people to progress to the National Assessment Centre.

“I would like to think all the candidates who applied for the scheme and wish the two successful candidates the best of luck at Bramshill.”