FORMER Penarth MP Alun Michael has been elected as the first Police and Crime Commissioner for South Wales.

The result of the first preference vote was:

· Mike Baker (Independent): 46,264 votes

· Caroline Jones (Conservative): 20,913 votes

· Alun Michael (Labour): 66,879 votes

· Tony Verderame (Independent): 8,378 votes.

The total number of votes cast (first and second preference votes):

· Mike Baker: 60,784 votes

· Alun Michael: 72,251 votes.

The election was declared at the Princess Royal Theatre in Port Talbot on Friday afternoon following a voting turnout of 15.16 per cent.

Chief Constable Peter Vaughan said: “I would like to congratulate Alun on his election as the first Police and Crime Commissioner for South Wales.

“While the election of the PCC marks the biggest change in policing for over 40 years, my focus will remain on working together to keep the communities of South Wales safe and further improve our excellent record in reducing crime.

"I have enjoyed a tremendously positive working relationship with Alun over many years during his time as an MP and I look forward to working with him again in his new role as the new Police and Crime Commissioner."

Alun Michael stepped down as MP in order to stand for the PCC election. The resulting by-election yesterday was won by Labour's Stephen Doughty.

Mr Michael's son Tal, who was standing as Labour candidate for the North Wales PCC role, lost out to Independent candidate Winston Roddick.