Philip Wilkinson OBE was re-elected as Wiltshire’s Police and Crime Commissioner in May 2024 for a second term.

Mr Wilkinson said his focus has – and would continue to be - his support to Wiltshire Police as it continues its improvement journey after being lifted from the Engage process and continuing to deliver upon his mission of Making Wiltshire Safer.

He pledged to continue to deliver a greater police visibility and added commitment to protecting communities, a renewed emphasis on ridding communities of anti-social behaviour alongside increased focus on rural and retail crime.

Mr Wilkinson – who will remain PCC until 2028 - thanked residents for the trust placed in him to continue in the role as PCC, promising to continue to be their voice in policing and hold Wiltshire Police accountable for an effective and efficient police service.

He said: “It is an absolute honour to continue as your Police and Crime Commissioner for the next four years.

“My promise remains the same – to be your voice in policing and to hold the Chief Constable to account for the effective and efficient police service that residents deserve - and Wiltshire Police are delivering under our outstanding Chief Constable.

“For me, this election has been about public service – security and protecting people is what I dedicated to – and will continue to do. This has never been about self-service.

“Now it is time for my office, and that of Wiltshire Police to ensure that Wiltshire is not only one of the safest places in the UK but feels safe for those who live and work here too. Together we continue on our journey of Making Wiltshire Safer.”

Leading from the front

Mr Wilkinson was elected in August 2021 as the new Police and Crime Commissioner for Wiltshire.

He had served for 32 years in the army with the Royal Artillery, Commando and Parachute Brigades and Special Forces, including six years in Northern Ireland mainly with the Royal Ulster Constabulary Special Branch. To this day he believes passionately in leading from the front and looking after his people.

Post his Army career, Philip has developed and run a series of counter-terrorist and institutional development programs on the international frontline in countries such as Rwanda, Iraq, Afghanistan, Palestine and Somalia.

Philip has pledged to use that experience and expertise for the benefit of communities across Wiltshire and Swindon. He has made a commitment to consult widely regarding threats and concerns, and then to focus on prevention, prosecution, punishment, restorative justice and victim support.

Mr Wilkinson was born in Liverpool, and raised in Newbury, but has lived Wiltshire for the last 28 years with his wife Ruth. They have two grown-up children. His hobbies include driving his Daimler Dart, salmon fishing, rugby, keeping fit and going to the village pub - but not all at the same time!

He has an MPhil from Cranfield University and is a member of the Royal Swedish Academy of War Sciences and a Research Associate on the International Security Program at Chatham House.