North's acting police chief 'will not apply for job'

Northern Ireland’s acting chief constable Colin Cramphorn is set to rule himself out of the race to become the reformed police force's next leader.

Sources disclosed that Colin Cramphorn would not be bidding to secure the £130,000 (€212,000) job on a permanent basis.

‘‘Colin has indicated privately he will not be applying,’’ one said.

Mr Cramphorn stepped up from deputy chief constable of the Police Service of Northern Ireland after Ronnie Flanagan quit last month.

It is understood Mr Cramphorn has made it clear he sees his future away from Northern Ireland.

A PSNI spokesman refused to confirm this decision. ‘‘We are saying nothing until tomorrow’s closing date,’’ he insisted.

Mr Cramphorn is expected to issue a statement on his situation tomorrow.

According to sources only five application packs were sent out to officers interested in the job.

Policing Board members have been sworn to secrecy as they hunt for the replacement to Ronnie Flanagan.