A FORMER Met office police officer who helped tackle the London riots has ben appointed as Avon and Somerset Police’s new assistant chief constable.

Jon Cummins, who has spent 19 years in the police, said he was ‘delighted’ to join the force: “I’m delighted to join Avon and Somerset Police, an organisation I’ve long admired.

“This role holds personal significance for me, connecting me to where my late father lived for over 30 years and where I spent my formative years.

“I’m honoured by my appointment and excited to start to make a difference.

“I’m looking forward to meeting colleagues, partners, and communities across the force in the coming weeks and building strong relationships.”

Mr Cummins began his career in Wales in 2005, before later transferring to the Met where he worked on the frontline in three inner-city boroughs. In 2014 he joined Dyfed-Powys Police as a unit commander, where he took on responsibility for local policing.

Asst chief cons. Cummins is said to have a ‘strong operational background’ and is an accredited ‘Gold Commander’ across a number of disciplines including firearms and public order.

Mr Cummins was welcomed to his new post by chief constable Sarah Crew. She said: “I’m really pleased that Jon will be joining us and I look forward to working with him.

“His values closely match ours and that, combined with his significant experience across several police forces and passion for policing, will be a real asset to us in Avon and Somerset.”