'Send a selfie': Police force criticised for method used to recruit new deputy chief constable

A police force recruiting a new deputy chief constable has been criticised for asking candidates to send in a "selfie" in order to apply for the job.

Humberside Police said it was "vital" applicants for the £117,078-a-year role "embraced new technology".

But critics claim the request is "absolutely appalling" and have questioned whether it was an appropriate method of recruitment for a serious job.

The force said applicants should express their interest in the role "with a New Year selfie".

It says it is looking for a "motivated and driven individual to lead, inspire and drive" to help Humberside Police enter a "challenging yet exciting period".

The current deputy chief constable David Griffin is retiring later this year.

Hull councillor Phil Webster told ITV News that the advert shows the police authority "in a very bad light".

The Labour councillor said there was a real danger that candidates would be discriminated against for their looks.

"It's got nothing to do with modern technology - it's wholly inappropriate," Mr Webster said.

"Is this the sort of behaviour we want to encourage for someone coming into such a responsible position?"

In a statement to ITV News, Chief Constable Justine Curran said the advert reflected "our aims and ambitions as a force".