STRATHCLYDE Police today launched a search for a "visionary" chief constable to replace Sir Willie Rae.

Sir Willie is retiring in October after six years and the hunt is now on to find his successor with the £161,178-a-year post advertised in our sister paper The Herald today.

The advert states: "The successful applicant will be required to set the strategic direction of policing and provide dynamic visionary and inspirational leadership.

"You will have a proven record of working in partnership with other organisations and in the management of quality delivery of change and promotion of excellence.

"You will work closely with the Scottish Executive contribute to national policy development and help drive forward modernisation and reform of the service.

"You will have a strong track record of innovation and driving up standards of performance."

As the Evening Times reported on Wednesday, the Scottish Executive has been forced to climb down over "unlawful" demands to interfere in the appointment of Strathclyde's next top cop.

The search for a successor to Chief Constable Sir Willie Rae was held up following requests to give more powers in the recruitment process to the Justice Department headed by Kenny MacAskill.

The Executive's demands had been branded unlawful by Strathclyde Joint Police Board, the body governed by councillors which, under law, has the final say on the new chief constable.