INVERCLYDE’S outgoing police chief has been praised after it was announced she is leaving the area commander post after two-and-a-half years.

Councillor Tommy McVey, who chairs the local police and fire scrutiny committee, thanked Chief Inspector Debbie Reilly who is take up a superintendent promotion at force HQ.

Cllr McVey said: “Debbie cares passionately about Inverclyde and her departure as area commander will be a big loss to the community.

“Along with her hard-working team, they have made significant progress over the last two-and-a-half years tackling crime and addressing concerns but also working extremely positively with various community groups and partner agencies, including the council.

“It’s been a pleasure working with Debbie, whose straight-talking approach and warm personality I admire.

“On behalf of the council, I’d like to thank her for all that she’s done for Inverclyde and wish her all the very best in her promotion.”

Ch Inspector Reilly is a Greenockian and was previously a roads policing sergeant prior to becoming area commander.