The new Chief Constable of West Yorkshire Police was named last night as Sir Norman Bettison.

The 50-year-old, a former Merseyside Chief Constable who has had a 32-year career in policing, will take up his new role early next year.

His appointment follows the retirement of the former Chief Constable, Colin Cramphorn, who tragically died of cancer at the end of November, aged 50.

Paying tribute to Mr Cramphorn, Sir Norman said: "I look forward to building on the firm foundations for success that have been laid by Colin.

"West Yorkshire is a force which commands respect nationally, not only for the way in which it has dealt with the most serious of incidents such as terrorism and the murder of colleagues, but also because of its reputation as one of the most improved forces in the country, in the latest report of Her Majesty's Inspector of Constabulary.

"I have a deep understanding of the rich history and heritage of the force.

"The officers and staff have much to be proud of and I shall do all I can to serve them and all of the diverse communities of West Yorkshire, to the best of my ability."

Councillor Mark Burns-Williamson, the chairman of West Yorkshire Police Authority, said: "It was a tough decision as we had some very able and talented candidates from which to choose.

"I am delighted to welcome Sir Norman to West Yorkshire, he brings a wealth of policing experience to the county. West Yorkshire is one of the best performing forces in the country and we are determined to remain so.

"Sir Norman is an outstanding candidate for the post and we are looking forward to working with him over the next few years and to continue a fine legacy left by Colin Cramphorn."

Sir Norman is maried and lives in Barnsley, South Yorkshire. He was knighted in this year's Queen's Birthday Honours list for services to policing.

He joined South Yorkshire Police in 1975 as a PC, and during his career he spent a six-year spell as a West Yorkshire Assistant Chief Constable.

From there he was appointed Chief Constable of Merseyside in 1998 - a role he held until 2004.

Sir Norman then became chief executive of Centrex, an organisation that provides support, training and development to UK and international police forces.

In recent months he has been seconded to support the police forces of England and Wales in collaborating to address serious operational threats.

While heading the Merseyside force he was credited with being the pioneer of Neighbourhood Policing.

e-mail: rebecca.wright@bradford.newsquest.co.uk