AN Independent candidate has won the Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) elections in Gloucestershire.

Martin Surl beat off competition from three other candidates to be named as the first ever Police and Crime Commissioner for Gloucestershire Constabulary.

Chief Constable Mick Matthews said: “Today marks the start of what I am sure will be a strong working relationship between the Constabulary and the Commissioner to deliver our purpose of keeping people safe from harm and inspiring the highest levels of confidence in us, their local police.

“The Constabulary is committed to working positively with the PCC in the future to ensure the focus remains upon delivering a police force that best serves our communities in Gloucestershire.”

Meanwhile, Ronald Ball, also an independent candidate was elected for Warwickshire.

The overall turnout for the county was 15.65 per cent.

Conservative Anthony Stansfeld has won the election to be the Thames Valley's first Police and Crime Commissioner.