Kent Chief Constable Mike Fuller is thought to be among the contenders to succeed Metropolitan Police Commissioner Sir Ian Blair.

Mr Fuller could be on the shortlist for the post as the UK's most senior policeman - but the man himself has refused to comment on the speculation after the shock resignation of Sir Ian on Thursday.

In a statement, Mr Fuller said he was "sorry to hear of Sir Ian's resignation" but added that it would be "totally inappropriate to comment or be drawn into any speculation" as to whether he would put himself forward for the post.

Mr Fuller joined Kent Police as chief constable in January 2004, but started his career with the Metropolitan Police Service as a cadet in 1975.

He has served in busy and demanding uniformed and CID positions throughout London, including New Scotland Yard.

His achievements included, as a Detective Chief Inspector, devising a burglary control programme, which formed the basis for the Metropolitan Police anti-burglary operation, ‘Operation Bumblebee’.

Later, as a detective superintendent based in the Home Office, he worked as staff officer specialising in giving advice and carrying out inspections in crime and counter-terrorism.

In 2001 he won the G2 ‘Man of the Year Award’ in recognition of his personal achievements and contribution to policing in London. He was awarded the Queen’s Police Medal for distinguished service in July 2004.

Mr Fuller is a non-practising barrister and was called to the Bar at Lincoln’s Inn in July 2007.