Gwent’s Police and Crime Commissioner has appointed his new deputy as the pair focus on tackling anti-social behaviour in the area.

Jeff Cuthbert, PCC for Gwent, announced the appointment of Eleri Thomas MBE at a meeting last Tuesday.

Mr Cuthbert, elected to the role during May’s election, said the pair would focus on delivering support for victims of crime, and quelling anti-social behaviour.

Ms Thomas beat a 46-strong interviewee list to clinch the £52,500 per year role, after a two round interview process.

The new deputy brings strong experience to the role, having been Welsh deputy children’s commissioner, and CEO of Save the Children, Wales.

Ms Thomas was also recognised in the Queen’s Birthday Honours list 2009, and received an MBE for her services to children and young people whilst heading the children’s charity.

The deputy will provide support and advice to Mr Cuthbert, and work to deliver his election vision which focused on a more present and transparent relationship between the police and community.

Ms Thomas, who started work this week, said, “I am delighted to have the opportunity to work with Jeff Cuthbert and support him to deliver his vision and police and crime priorities for the people of Gwent.

"I am committed to ensuring that local residents have an effective and efficient police service which delivers appropriate support for victims and strives to prevent crime and anti-social behaviour.”

Gwent PCC Jeff Cuthbert, said, “Eleri is an individual with an impressive and varied range of skills and experiences and I am delighted to welcome someone of her calibre to this role.

"She will play an important part in supporting my work of engaging with as many communities as possible and in ensuring that residents have direct input into the type of policing they want to see locally.

"She will play a key role in supporting me to develop a proactive police and crime plan for Gwent as we work closely with our partners, the Force and the community to prevent crime and tackle anti-social behaviour. I look forward to working with her.”

For further information regarding the work of the PCC and Gwent Police, please visit www.gwent.pcc.police.uk/