Mr Mackey is currently with the Gloucestershire force

Cumbria Police Authority said the new man in charge was to be Craig Mackey, the present deputy chief constable of Gloucestershire Police.

The appointment follows the retirement of Michael Baxter after six years in the post.

Mr Mackey began his career with Wiltshire Police in 1984 and was appointed deputy chief constable of Gloucestershire in 2005.

Reg Watson, chair of Cumbria Police Authority said: "We are absolutely delighted to appoint Mr Mackey as the new chief constable.

Understanding issues

"Cumbria is already a good performing constabulary and Mr Mackey will be able to maintain and further develop performance that has been achieved in recent years.

"We look forward to working with Mr Mackey as he takes the constabulary to the next stages in ensuring that the people of Cumbria feel safe, satisfied and reassured.

"Mr Mackey has an excellent policing background and already has a good understanding of the issues that face Cumbria.

"Presently, we are negotiating with Gloucestershire Police Authority for a start date."

Mr Mackey added: "Cumbria Constabulary has a good reputation, both locally and nationally, and I look forward to maintaining and building that reputation further."