A former Surrey policeman has been announced as the UK Independence Party’s candidate for police and crime commissioner.

Robert Shatwell served 18 years in the Surrey constabulary and said he understood the workings of the force and the problems they faced.

He said he wanted to re-establish the beat officer system and continue UKIP’s policy of zero tolerance on crime.

Mr Shatwell said: “This is a most important element in policing; it is where I got most of my information from regarding problems within the community.

“I believe, as does my party, that prison sentences should be used as a deterrent and should mean what they say. At present sentences are far too lenient and if a custodial sentence is given the criminal knows they will only serve half of it before being released on licence.”

Nigel Farage, UKIP Leader and Surrey MEP, said he was delighted that the party had a candidate with such experience running for the position.