Kingston’s first Asian mayor has been appointed assistant commissioner to Surrey’s police and crime commissioner, Kevin Hurley.

Shiraz Mirza, councillor for Chessington South at Kingston Council, where he has twice been mayor, was chosen for the position of assistant commissioner for equality and diversity, while Jane Anderson, a former Ministry of Justice worker, was selected for the role of assistant commissioner for victims.

Coun Mirza will work to build links with minority and hard-to-reach groups across Surrey, making sure they receive a good service from Surrey Police and the criminal justice system and encourage these groups to engage with people.

No stranger to community engagement work, Coun Mirza has forged ties with Shooting Star Chase, Royad, is a governor of Kingston College and a patron of Hillcroft College.

Mr Mirza said: “I am honoured to have been offered the position of assistant crime and police commissioner.

“During my many years of public service I have been fortunate to work alongside and support a wide and inclusive range of individuals and groups.

“Having been fortunate to have held many community based and charitable positions I am keen to continue to engage with all sections of our communities, especially those who are keen to work together to increase respect and the values of equality and human rights.”

Ms Anderson’s role will ensure that victims and witnesses are at the heart of Surrey’s criminal justice system.

After a spell with the British Council and 12 years with the BBC, Ms Anderson spent most of her career as a senior civil servant at the Home Office, Ministry of Justice and other Whitehall departments advising government ministers and developing workable policies to implement government objectives.

Mr Hurley said: “The victim should be at the heart of the criminal justice system. All too often they are not. I am determined to do something about it.

“Jane is an important addition to our team – she is an experienced, insightful and tenacious character who will be a powerful advocate for victims of crime in Surrey. I know she will drive their cause forward with energy and determination.”

The assistant commissioners will assist Mr Hurley with his work and will be expected to work 1.5 days a week for a salary of £12,500.