SURREY'S new Deputy Chief Constable has stepped straight into the top job.

Mark Rowley has been appointed on the day Chief Constable Bob Quick left the force to become Assistant Commisioner Specialist Operations with the Metropolitan Police.

Mr Rowley, who has 21 years of policing experience, will be temporary Chief Constable from today.

He began his career in the West Midlands before moving to the National Criminal Intelligence Service. He joined Surrey Police in 2000 as Chief Superintendent of West Surrey division and was appointed Assistant Chief Constable in 2003. He has been temporary Deputy Chief Constable since January.

Chairman of Surrey Police Authority Jim Smith said: "We are delighted to appoint Mark Rowley as our Deputy Chief Constable at Surrey Police. Mark is a talented and very experienced police officer who will continue to provide excellent leadership to the force at this critical time. We know what Mark can do and are confident that he will continue to add real value to Surrey Police."

Lynne Owens will be temporary Deputy Chief Constable.

In his new role Mr Quick will be responsible for counter-terrorism, specialist protection and royalty protection.