A senior British officer, who was sent to advise Palestinian police by an EU committee, has retired from the police force to move to the region .

Former Chief Inspector Andrew Udall, from Shropshire, is the first British officer who was sent to advise, train and equip Palestinian police by the EU Co-ordination Office.

Mr Udall, 48, joined the force at the age of 18 but retired from the West Mercia force on Wednesday, according to the Shropshire Star.

He reportedly said: “The work is very rewarding and very interesting.

“After 30 very enjoyable years with West Mercia Police I suppose you reach a stage where you want something fresh and different.

“As much as I have enjoyed the job, there’s a big world outside the police force and lots of other things to do.”