Cumbria's Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner, David Allen, has been appointed to several national policing boards.

Mr Allen will represent Cumbria on the Police Digital Services (PDS) Board, the PDS Audit and Risk Committee, the BlueLight Commercial Board, and the Serious Organised Crime and Specialist Capabilities Board for the Association of Police and Crime Commissioners (APCC).

The PDS Board and the PDS Audit and Risk Committee are responsible for managing digital services and solutions that allow UK policing to use technology to enhance public safety.

The BlueLight Commercial Board oversees the company's operation, considering strategic issues and risks, and ensuring that BlueLight Commercial achieves its aim of partnering with blue light organisations.

The Serious Organised Crime and Specialist Capabilities Board leads the APCC's work against serious organised crime, including the delivery of the SOC strategy and support for Regional Organised Crime Units. Mr Allen has been named as the vice chairperson for this board.

Speaking about the appointments, Mr Allen said he was honoured to represent Cumbria at a national level, ensuring the county’s voice is heard across the country.

He said: "Part of my role is to get the best resource for Cumbria – in order to achieve this, I want to help influence national decisions that not only have a positive effect on my county but also help constabularies and fire and rescue services across England and Wales.

"I’ve dedicated my life to public service and ensuring public safety – both at a local and national level – so I believe that my past experience will be an asset to these boards and I look forward to working with everyone involved."

As the Director of Northwest Fire Control, Mr Allen also handles all 999 emergency calls and is responsible for mobilising firefighters and fire engines to incidents in Cumbria, Lancashire, Greater Manchester, and Cheshire.

If you wish to report a crime to the police you can do so online at the Cumbria Police website. You can also phone on 101. Always phone 999 in an emergency or if a crime is in progress.