South Yorkshire chief constable retires a year early

Image caption, South Yorkshire Police has to cut 拢40m from its budget over four years

South Yorkshire's chief constable has announced he is to retire in October - a year before his contract runs out.

Med Hughes has led the force since 2004, having previously being deputy chief constable and has more than 30 years' police service.

Mr Hughes has agreed to go a year earlier in time for a successor to be found to oversee the introduction of an elected police commissioner.

Earlier this year he warned crime would rise because of budget cuts.

The force has to cut 拢40m from its budget over four years.

'Successful force'

Charles Perryman, chairman of the South Yorkshire Police Authority, paid tribute to Mr Hughes.

"We would like to thank Med Hughes for his commitment, support and leadership during the last seven years," he said.

"South Yorkshire Police is now recognised as one of the most successful forces in the country and Med Hughes has personally been at the forefront of these achievements.

"Agreeing to this retirement will provide the authority with the opportunity to appoint a new chief constable before the election of a police and crime commissioner in May 2012.

"This will ensure continuity of leadership at a time of great change and challenging financial difficulties which are facing policing, not just in South Yorkshire but across the UK."