FORMER Dyfed-Powys Police Chief Constable Terence Grange sent private e-mails from work and broke force policy, the police authority confirmed.

Mr Grange retired abruptly as it was announced he was under investigation for alleged financial irregularities and misuse of the police computer system. His retirement meant a halt to the investigation into computer misuse.

This week the authority confirmed: "Following consultation with the Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC) the authority would wish it to be clarified that this relates to private e-mails concerning a personal relationship entered into by the former Chief Constable with a person unconnected with either the authority or Dyfed-Powys police force.

"Such use contravenes force policy."

However, the IPCC will continue the investigation into alleged financial irregularities. Meanwhile the authority defended its decision to let Mr Grange to retire.

"As an officer with 36 years service Mr Grange had the right to seek to retire," a spokesman said.

He added that issues had raised questions about the Chief Constable's judgement. "The emergency committee decided it was in the public interest that his offer to retire should be accepted."

But the authority came under fire from west Wales AM Alun Davies. He said: "It would appear the authority has prevented an investigation taking place. It is difficult to see how public confidence can be maintained."