Acting Dorset Police Chief in line for top job

Image caption, Dorset Acting Chief Constable Debbie Simpson has been put forward for the job permanently

Acting Dorset Police Chief Constable Debbie Simpson has been selected as the preferred candidate to take the top job at the force.

Ms Simpson was selected by Police and Crime Commissioner Martin Underhill and other officials.

Mr Underhill said: "This was a unanimous decision by the panel. There was a strong range of candidates."

A Police and Crime Panel will consider the recommendation during a hearing at County Hall, Dorchester, on 7 February.