NEWS of Cheshire’s police and crime commissioner appointing himself a deputy raised a wry smile this week.

In these uncertain times, I’m sure we can all agree that we need more police and crime commissioners.

Fear not ye who spoiled your ballots back in May, for we have reached even greater levels of pointless bureaucracy.

PCC John Dwyer’s election campaign manager was handed the role, in a true rags to riches tale.

It will be his job to fill in for his boss at community events and meetings when Mr Dwyer is otherwise occupied.

Presumably his wage will be deducted from the commissioner’s salary, given his now lightened workload.

NAME AND ADDRESS SUPPLIED