The former chairman of Wiltshire Police Federation has backed Labour candidate Junab Ali's bid for the Police and Crime Commissioner’s job.

Coun Ali is standing in the May 6 election as PCC Angus Macpherson's retires after nine years.

Mike White, who was an inspector in Wiltshire Police and chaired the officers’ federation, said: “As a former police officer I saw the damage that the Conservatives did to policing in Wiltshire over the past 10 years.

“There have been cuts to officer and staff numbers by over 20 per cent. Community policing was decimated.

“Junab is an excellent example of someone who can truly represent his community. His experience as a mayor of Swindon and councillor demonstrate he has the experience to connect with the community and represent their needs.

“I worked within the Wiltshire Police performance team for a number of years so have an in-depth understanding of the complexities of measuring police performance.

“Junab's experience on the Police and Crime Panel will be vital in helping him understand the performance information and identify key areas for improvement. His priorities are sensible and achievable. They can help make a real difference to the policing service the public expect and deserve."

Coun Ali, who is also a Swindon Borough councillor said he is delighted to have such a highly respected former police officer support his campaign.

Also standing in the election are Conservative Jonathon Seed, Lib Dem Liz Webster, Reform UK’s Julian Malins and independent candidate Mike Rees.