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Nolan is Essex's first ever female chief constable

Alexander StevanovicEssex
News imageEssex Police Rachel Nolan smiles at the camera. It is a head-and-shoulders shot. She is wearing her uniform and police hat and is standing in a high street. The street is out of focus.Essex Police
Essex's new police boss said she was "delighted and privileged"

Rachel Nolan has become the first ever female chief constable in Essex Police's 186-year history.

She has served in the force for more than 27 years, progressing through every rank, and is now its 14th boss.

Nolan said she was "absolutely delighted and privileged". She will formally take up the post in the coming months.

Her appointment was approved at a confirmation hearing at County Hall, Chelmsford, on Thursday.

News imageESSEX PFCC Rachel Nolan, on the right, shaking hands with Roger Hirst, the Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner for Essex. They are standing next to a marble pillar inside County Hall in Chelmsford. There is a large wall painting showing a crowd scene behind them. Hirst is in a dark suit, a white shirt and a blue tie. Nolan is in her police uniform and has her hat under her left arm.ESSEX PFCC
Rachel Nolan, pictured with Roger Hirst, Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner for Essex, as she was confirmed as the county's new chief constable

Nolan said she was committed to "focusing on prevention, protection and professionalism, while always listening to our communities and victims".

She succeeds BJ Harrington, who has led Essex Police since 2018.

Roger Hirst, the Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner for Essex, said he had "every confidence" that Nolan was committed to making Essex safer.

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