A NEW divisional commander has been appointed at Police Scotland Forth Valley, aiming to deliver the “best possible policing service” for the area.

Chief superintendent Roddy Irvine has been chosen for the role, following 20 years working in local and national roles.

Most recently, the new divisional commander returned from a secondment working with His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary.

Following his announcement, he said: “I’m proud and delighted to have been appointed as divisional commander for Forth Valley.

“This is an area which is close to my heart, having previously lived here for more than a decade.

“It’s obvious to me that I am joining an effective and professional policing division with a long and proud history.”

Chief superintendent Irvine replaces Barry Blair in the role, who served in the role from January 2023.

Mr Irvine hailed the work his predecessor did, and insisted he looks forward to building on that work to make Forth Valley as safe as it can be.

He continued: “I would like to thank my predecessor Barry Blair for the work he has done for the communities of Forth Valley and wish him well in his new role.

“I’m very much looking forward to working with the officers and staff of Forth Valley Division, as well as local partners, to ensure we deliver the best possible policing service to keep people safe.”

Chief superintendent Irvine’s career in the police force began more than 20 years ago in 2003 in Strathclyde.

Since then, he has worked in forces across Glasgow, East Dunbartonshire, Tayside and served as Lanarkshire Divisional Commander for three years.

In 2019, he was appointed temporary assistant chief constable with responsibility over operational change, resilience and the updating of Police Scotland’s core operating systems.