Others runners and riders

Charismatic and hugely able Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) Started his career in the Met, the 50-year-old has been favourite to succeed but yesterday committed himself to the PSNI until 2010, but friends say he would be persuaded "if his country calls." Seems unscathed after leaving his wife last year to set up home with woman by whom he had a love child.

Bernard Hogan-Howe, 50, - chief constable at Merseyside

Known for a no-nonsense approach and is highly ambitious. Has made no secret of his desire for the job. The 50-year-old has achieved major reductions in crime as chief constable of Merseyside.

Sir Norman Bettison, 52, - West Yorkshire police

The 52-year-old chief constable of North Yorkshire is another straight talker and highly regarded in Home Office circles but has his detractors. He was also centre of row over attempts to claims two pensions.

Mike Fuller, 49, - chief constable at Kent

The first black police chief in the UK when he took the Kent job in 2004. A former Met high flyer he is expected to apply for the post but is an outsider with doubts over the delivery of crime reduction in Kent.

John Yates, 48 - Assistant Commissioner at the Met

The man who led the cash for honours investigation into Labour Party finances, he is the dark horse in the leadership race. May be the right candidate for a complete new broom at the Yard, though some say he still lacks the experience of a top job.