GWENT'S police and crime commissioner Ian Johnston has spoken of a "new mood of cooperation" since the departure of former chief constable Carmel Napier.

Mr Johnston said he and temporary chief constable Jeff Farrar were working together and said the pair had received much positive feedback since they addressed staff last week.

He said there had been a "huge change" in the working relationship between the two offices in the past week saying: "This is not about looking back and readdressing what's been in the media, but there's a different mood between the office of the police and crime commissioner and the chief officer's team. Hopefully that change will impact on officers' attitudes and their performance, and I'm sure it will."

"There's a new mood of cooperation."

"I think staff are very positive about the message they received, particularly from the chief constable last week about how he sees the future direction of the force."

He said this included greater empowerment of local policing units to allow them to conduct business in the way that fits best in their area - something he said was welcomed by officers.

Former chief constable Carmel Napier announced her sudden retirement from the force two weeks ago.

But documents leaked to the Argus showed Mr Johnston told her to retire or be removed.