Michael Craik takes up the post in April

Michael Craik, 50, who is currently the force's deputy chief constable, will take up his appointment on 1 April.

He takes over from Crispian Strachan, who took on the role in 1998 before announcing his plans to retire in September last year.

Tyneside-born Mr Craik, who was educated at Heaton Grammar School, said on Monday he was proud and very honoured to have been chosen.

'Highly capable'

Mr Craik began his police career in 1977 with the Metropolitan Police and took up his current role in July 2000.

He said: "As a local man and a police officer, there can be no greater thrill than to be chosen to lead your home team. I am looking forward to taking up my appointment hugely."

Chairman of Northumbria Police Authority Councillor Mick Henry said: "I feel sure that the police authority has chosen the ideal man to lead Northumbria Police onwards into the 21st century.

"We know Michael Craik to be a highly capable and experienced police officer and his obvious skills and expertise will give further impetus to our fight against crime.

"The police authority was particularly impressed with his ideas and his commitment to tackling crime and I have little doubt that he will continue Northumbria's tradition of taking the fight to the criminal."