THE assistant chief constable of Wiltshire Police is leaving his post to move back to Wales where he started his career 22 years ago.

Peter Vaughan will leave the Wiltshire force on January 1 2007 to become assistant chief constable of South Wales Police.

Mr Vaughan started his career in south Wales in 1984 as a uniformed patrol officer.

He said he had enjoyed his time in the Wiltshire force.

"We have faced significant challenges and have had significant achievements and I am proud to have served with the officers and staff of Wiltshire Police," he said.

"I will be sorry to leave but am looking forward to taking up my new post with South Wales Police."

Bertie Woolnough, chairman of Wiltshire Police Authority, paid tribute to Mr Vaughan's 'enthusiasm, ability and commitment'.

Chief Constable Martin Richards said picking a predecessor would be no easy task.