He will be taking on the second most important anti-crime job in the country, behind the commissioner of the Metropolitan Police Authority.

Mr Fahy, 49, will succeed his friend Michael Todd, 50, who was found dead on March 11 on Snowdonia.

Mr Fahy told a press conference in Manchester last night: "It's a very hard act to follow. Michael Todd was a remarkable police leader.

"There is a firm foundation to build on but I am my own person.

"I think I have achieved a lot with Cheshire Police. Greater Manchester is another bigger challenge."

In his £168,000-a-year role Mr Fahy will lead 12,000 Greater Manchester Police staff, including 8,000 police officers and the force's own counter terrorism unit.

Cllr Peter Nurse, chairman of Cheshire Police Authority said: "During his five years as chief constable in Cheshire, Peter Fahy has been very successful in developing the constabulary and reducing crime levels, all of which has made a real difference to the people of Cheshire, police officers and staff.

"His skills and experience will be a real asset to Greater Manchester Police."

Chester MP Christine Russell said today: "Peter Fahy has been chief constable of one of the most effective police forces in the country, so I am not surprised by his appointment. Congratulations to him."

She said Mr Fahy was 'outward looking' and he had forged good working relations with police forces covering Merseyside, North Wales and Greater Manchester which would bode well for the people of Cheshire in years to come.

Cheshire Police Authority is now in discussions with Greater Manchester Police Authority about when Mr Fahy will start his new job but he will take over formally in November. Cllr Nurse added: "The police authority will now start the process to find a new chief constable and hope to make an appointment later this year.

"If any interim arrangements are necessary the current deputy, Graeme Gerrard will be appointed as acting chief constable and the authority has every confidence in his leadership during this period."