A popular Sussex police inspector says he could not turn down the offer of a new job despite protests over his move.

Chief Inspector Stuart Harrison is leaving Brighton and Hove, although civic leaders and businesses campaigned for him to stay.

He told his supporters he was sorry to be going but had been flattered by his selection for a specialist job at Lewes headquarters.

One managing director wrote to Chief Constable Ken Jones urging him to keep Mr Harrison in the city.

However, the chief inspector said: "I have had a wonderful time in what is the best city in the UK.

"I leave with mixed feelings but I am sure my replacement will be excellent and just as determined to keep the city safe."

Mr Harrison helped launch permanent policing at the Clock Tower, officers on buses and in-line skates for seafront patrol police.

Mr Harrison takes up his new post next month.