VICTIMS of crime in Herefordshire have new rights.

A new law means they now have the right to be kept informed both about the progress of their case and support services.

For the first time, victims have to be told when a suspect has been arrested and why an offender received a particular sentence.

Under the code, victims must have at least a monthly update but West Mercia Constabulary says it plans to do better than meet the minimum requirement.

At key points in an investigation - such as when an arrest is made - the code allows five days for the victim to be informed but police in West Mercia say they will try to do in within one day.