Kent Police has officially appointed Peter Ayling as the permanent Deputy Chief Constable (DCC) after he served in the role on an interim basis since October 2022. The formal selection process concluded in June 2024, confirming his permanent position within the force.
Chief Constable Tim Smith praised Ayling’s extensive experience in local policing, public order, firearms command, and strategic partnerships across Kent and London. “His passion for the role, the force, and serving Kent communities shone through,” Smith said. “I’m delighted to have him onboard as DCC to help steer the force forward.”
Peter Ayling’s career highlights include joining Kent Police in 1998 and progressing through the ranks. In 2011, he moved to the Metropolitan Police as Superintendent, where he led 1,500 officers and staff as Borough Commander of Westminster. He played a key role in managing the aftermath of the Westminster terror attack. Ayling returned to Kent Police in 2018 as Assistant Chief Constable for local policing.
The decision to make Ayling’s appointment permanent was made by a panel chaired by Chief Constable Smith. The panel also included Police and Crime Commissioner Matthew Scott, Kent Police HR Director Richard Leicester, and senior representatives from Kent County Council and Kent Fire and Rescue Service.
Speaking about his appointment, DCC Ayling said, “I’m very proud and honoured to be appointed Deputy Chief Constable for Kent Police. As the son of a Kent Police officer and lifelong local, this is the greatest honour I could ask for. Kent is a fantastic place to live, work and visit, and our police force is dedicated to keeping people safe and tackling crime and antisocial behaviour. I look forward to working alongside Chief Constable Smith and everyone in the force to deliver the very best service to victims and witnesses.”
Originally published by UKNIP.
