Deputy Chief Constable Simon Blatchly has formally wished Tony Wetton the very best of luck as the chair of Derbyshire Police Federation’s retirement fast approaches.

Simon recalls that Tony was one of the first to welcome him to the Constabulary when he joined Derbyshire 18 months ago.

Since then, the pair have continued to work closely together, with Simon heaping praise on Tony for regularly liaising with him about the Federation’s concerns.

Simon said: “Tony and I have worked closely together in that time and I really appreciated that fact he has always kept me informed on a regular basis, on all the Federation’s concerns and developments. 

“As both an officer and chair of the Federation, he has been a great colleague to have worked alongside. 

“I have valued our honest and open conversations, which admittedly, have been difficult at times, but being able to have those, is a credit to the professional relationship we have formed.

“I would like to thank Tony for his service and wish him all the very best for his retirement.”

Simon has said he looks forward to working with Tony’s replacement and hopes the solid relationship between the Force and Federation remains.