Chief Constable for Hertfordshire Andy Bliss has confirmed that he plans to retire from policing at the end of the summer.

Mr Bliss is leaving after five years serving Hertfordshire Constabulary to pursue a passion for archaeology.

During his time with the force, Mr Bliss has overseen several major operations and investigations, including the 2012 Olympic Games, policing music festivals and royal visits.

He was on the ground during the 2011 London riots, and helped ensure they did not spread to Hertfordshire.

Mr Bliss said he has found the role “challenging and fulfilling”, and added: “I am proud about all the work done by so many dedicated and talented colleagues to keep people safe, catch criminals and tackle emerging crime trends during my time with the force

“The constabulary is well placed financially and operationally and has a strong sense of direction in terms of meeting the challenges ahead.

“In recent years and supported by the police and crime commissioner (PCC), we have sustained neighbourhood policing and invested in key areas like rural policing, cybercrime and protecting vulnerable people – all vital if we are to continue to be successful in tackling crime.”

Mr Bliss began his policing career with Sussex Police in 1982, and was appointed assistant chief constable of Essex Police in 2004.

He became deputy chief constable two years later, and briefly commanded the force between July and September 2009.

He also chairs the National Policing Drugs Committee, as well as the UK Drugs and International Drugs Threat Group, and was awarded the Queen’s Police Medal in 2010.

Hertfordshire PCC David Lloyd said: “Andy Bliss is an exceptional chief constable. He brings a keen intellect and a quiet authority to policing and in everything he does he is urbane.

“I will particularly miss his dry sense of humour which often helps to alleviate a tense moment in meetings.

"On a national basis his successful work to counter illegal drugs in the country has been one of the most important roles in policing."

He added: “I want to thank him personally for working with me in such a positive way. I have learned much from him and will miss him.”

Michelle Dunn will be temporarily stepping up to cover the role before a new Chief Constable is appointed.