The county’s police commissioner has confirmed his right hand man will be deputy prison governor Lindsay Whitehouse.

Nick Alston, who was elected into the post in November, said he needed the deputy, who currently works at Chelmsford prison and will receive a salary of £55,000.

Mr Alston added: “The police and crime plan for Essex is built upon a determination to tackle the cycle of re-offending, to steer young offenders away from criminality, to reduce drug and alcohol abuse, and to address the horrors of domestic abuse.

“Lindsay Whitehouse brings a wealth of experience to support the Police and Crime Commissioner, Essex Police, the community safety partnerships and the voluntary sector in these challenging but crucial efforts to help keep Essex safe.”

The county’s police and crime panel unanimously voted for Mr Whitehouse to be appointed.