Lincolnshire Police’s departing chief constable says force has improved on rural crime and road safety – but warned staff are tired and need recognition

The departing top cop in Lincolnshire says his staff are tired and need to be looked after due to a high workload and tight funding – but feels he leaves the force in a better shape than three years ago.

Chris Haward announced in November that he would be leaving Lincolnshire Police in February 2024 to take up a role with the National Police Chief’s Council as UK coordinator tackling serious and organised crime.

Reflecting on his three years in the post, he expressed pride at improvements achieved despite a lack of money and resources. He pointed to tackling neighbourhood issues, progress on rural crime and better road safety as three areas where progress was made.