Knighthood for deputy Met chief

Sir Paul began his career with Lancashire Constabulary in 1975

The Queen has awarded a knighthood to Metropolitan Police deputy commissioner Sir Paul Stephenson.

Sir Paul, who has been in the role since 2005, said he was "delighted and humbled" to accept the award.

He was one of three Met officers honoured in a Buckingham Palace ceremony on Friday.

Supt Roger Gomm was awarded the Queen's Police Medal and Sgt Christopher Gislingham received the Member of the Royal Victorian Order.

Sir Paul began his police career with Lancashire Constabulary in 1975 and was awarded the Queen's Policing Medal in 2000.

"Throughout my career I have been privileged to work with many talented and dedicated people," he said.

"This is an opportunity to pay tribute to them and my family who have supported me throughout my career."

Sir Paul will become acting Met commissioner if no candidate is appointed by the time Sir Ian Blair steps down on 1 December.