THE Chief Constable of Essex has announced his retirement.

Roger Baker has held the top position in the county since 2005 overseeing a number of high profile decisions.

He attracted criticism in August last year with his plan to sponsor the police force to raise money for 600 extra officers.

The idea that small firms could provide police with financial backing is still under discussion by the Essex Police Authority.

More popular was the re-introduction of police horses in March 2007 and Mr Baker was also behind the idea that police officers should meet with all victims of crime.

In June last year Ongar MP Eric Pickles accused Mr Baker of “speed dating” his police commanders after the Epping Forest district had three changes at the top in two years.

Mr Baker said: “I have thoroughly enjoyed working here and am glad to have led a team responsible for so many achievements –all of which have put the public first.”

He will formally step down on July 5, 2009.