Simon Blatchly confirmed as Derbyshire's new Acting Chief Constable

The appointment of Simon Blatchly OBE to the post was confirmed by the region's Police and Crime Commissioner, Nicolle Ndiweni-Roberts.

A/CC Blatchly has served as the force’s Deputy Chief Constable since 2022, and during his time has led operational policing, performance and organisational culture across the force.

He is also a Gold Public Order and CBRN Commander and leads nationally on surveillance in partnership with the NCA and other security agencies, as well as motorcycles and BikeSafe on behalf of the National Police Chiefs’ Council.

The officer replaces the outgoing Rachel Swann, who announced her retirement earlier this year.

Prior to joining Derbyshire, A/CC Blatchly spent the majority of his policing career with Northamptonshire Police in a range of senior operational, crime and intelligence roles.

He also served internationally with the United Nations in Iraq, New York and Liberia, leading policing for peacekeeping missions and national security work, and was awarded an OBE in 2018 for services to international policing.

Ms Ndiweni-Roberts said the interim appointment will provide “consistent strategic direction, strong operational oversight and organisational resilience during a challenging period”.

She continued: “I look forward to working closely with Simon as we continue to deliver my Police and Crime Plan and ensure that Derbyshire remains a safe place for everyone who lives, works and visits here.

“I’m well aware that this is a particularly busy and demanding period for Derbyshire Constabulary, and it is essential that we have a strong, experienced leader in place to provide stability and clear direction.

“I would also like to place on record my sincere thanks to our outgoing Chief Constable, Rachel Swann, for her outstanding public service, unwavering commitment to policing and keeping our communities safe. I wish her every success and happiness in the future.”

A/CC Blatchly said: “I am truly honoured to be given the opportunity to lead Derbyshire Constabulary and build upon the work of CC Swann.

“While my time in policing has taken me all over the world, to lead the force, in the county that I call home, is greatest privilege so far.

“Over the coming months there will be a number of significant pressures for the force to contend with, however, I know that the staff and officers across the county, from Swadlincote to Glossop, Ashbourne to Shirebrook, will continue to help ensure dangerous criminals are put behind bars, safeguard vulnerable victims, and work with partners to ensure that Derbyshire remains a safe place to live, work and visit.”