Croydon’s most senior policeman has left the borough after becoming eligible for promotion.

Borough commander Mark Gore was appointed Croydon’s top cop in November 2005.

He passed a series of tests two weeks ago which means he will soon be eligible to apply for positions at commander and assistant chief constable level.

Although Mr Gore said he would like to stay policing Croydon, Metropolitan Police Service rules means he has to temporarily leave his post.

Police sources said last night he could theoretically return to his post later in the year but said it was unlikely.

Superintendent Adrian Roberts, who was born in Croydon, and moved to the borough as superintendent operations in October 2007, will become acting borough commander until Mr Gore’s future is decided.

Mr Gore’s departure was announced by MP Malcolm Wicks at a public meeting in Thornton Heath last night to discuss policing issues.

Croydon Council deputy leader Steve O’Connell said: “I know how incredibly hard he has worked in the last three years. He leaves a record of crime going down. I am delighted with his work over the last three years but it is time for him to move on. I look forward to working with his successor. ”