West Midlands deputy PCC to be youngest in country

The 27-year-old has been nominated for the role by PCC David Jamieson, who said he would "continue to ensure the voice of young people is heard loud and clear".

The position has been vacant since Yvonne Mosquito left in May 2016, after a disciplinary hearing found she had committed "serious misconduct" by visiting a murder victim's family without informing officers.

Mr Bertie has served as an assistant PCC for three years. His nomination will be signed off at a West Midlands Police and Crime Panel meeting next month.

Mr Jamieson has also appointed Waheed Saleem to become an assistant PCC, while Councillor Lynnette Kelly is leaving the same post to focus on her campaign to succeed Mr Jamieson.

Mr Jamieson said: "I am pleased to announce Ashley's nomination to become the deputy police and crime commissioner.

"He has worked as an Assistant PCC for three years, achieving much on police use of stop and search and the Gangs & Violence Commission. He will continue to ensure the voice of young people is heard loud and clear.

"Waheed has made a huge contribution to West Midlands Police with his work on our change programme and building partnerships with businesses. I know that as an assistant police and crime commissioner he will continue that work and much more.

"I am grateful to Councillor Dr Kelly for her work with us, and wish her well in for the future."

Mr Bertie said: “I am delighted to be given this opportunity. I will be focussing on tackling the rise of violent crime on our streets.

“I have championed the voice of young people and I will continue to do so. As well as giving all members of our community a voice, we also need to give them opportunities. I will be focusing on expanding mentoring schemes and initiatives to break the cycle of violence and keep people safe.”

Mr Saleem said: “I am looking forward to starting my new role. I am passionate about working with businesses to ensure they give young people the opportunities they deserve. This will also lead to greater prosperity and reduce crime.

“Using my experience gained by serving on the Strategic Policing and Crime Board, I will continue to take an active role supporting David Jamieson in holding West Midlands Police to account.”