WESTERN area commander for Suffolk Police, chief superintendent Mark Cordell, is leaving his post.He will be taking on a new role at the end of this month as head of the constabulary's policing and professional standards department.

WESTERN area commander for Suffolk Police, chief superintendent Mark Cordell, is leaving his post.

He will be taking on a new role at the end of this month as head of the constabulary's policing and professional standards department.

This new role will be based at the force's headquarters at Martlesham, overseeing the performance of the constabulary and the quality of service it provides.

Ch supt Paul Marshall, previously western area crime manager and currently head of corporate development, will take over as western area commander on Monday, October 1.

Ch Supt Cordell said: “The role of western area commander is the job I have aspired to throughout my career, and I have thoroughly enjoyed my time in the position.

“My new role focuses on identifying ways Suffolk Constabulary can further improve the quality of the services we provide to our communities.

“This has been a continuing theme throughout my time in the western area, so I hope I can continue to contribute to improving our performance in my new position.”