Bedfordshire’s Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) Festus Akinbusoye has been invited to join the College of Policing’s board to ‘boost professionalism, improve leadership and drive consistency’.

The commissioner will join College of Policing Chief Executive Officer Andy Marsh, Lord Nick Herbert and Gwent PCC Jeff Cuthbert as a member of the College of Policing’s Board of Directors.

The new role will see the PCC further his national contributions in policing by supporting the College of Policing to develop their strategic direction and values, while ensuring the organisation continues to deliver on its obligations to both the public and key partners including the Home Secretary.

Speaking on the recent appointment, Mr Akinbusoye said: ‘I am honoured to join the board of the College of Policing at this most critical time in the history of British policing.

“While my role as Police and Crime Commissioner for Bedfordshire will always be my top priority, undertaking appointments like this provide an incredible platform for the voice of the county I serve while making good on my promise to be a national contributor to policing.

“I look forward to supporting and challenging the college’s leadership in delivering its core responsibilities of improving standards in British policing, developing leadership, and driving consistency across our police forces. The challenge is immense, but so are the opportunities ahead.”

In addition to this recent appointment, the PCC also serves as portfolio lead for crime prevention for the Association of Police and Crime Commissioners.