THE police force which operates in Herefordshire is withdrawing from an alliance which was intended to save money.

West Mercia Police entered in a strategic alliance with Warwickshire Police in 2013 and aimed to share resources and make savings of £30m by 2015.

But West Mercia has now decided to withdraw from the arrangement to deliver "more effective and efficient services to communities in Herefordshire and Worcestershire."

A formal process has now started to bring the alliance to an end on October 8, 2019.

Chief Constable Anthony Bangham said: “This is a positive start for a new chapter for West Mercia Police. It opens up opportunities to deliver more efficient and effective policing services, providing the very best protection to our communities, and a greater clarity and focus in Herefordshire, Worcestershire and across West Mercia.

“Whilst officers will respond as they always have, local policing will be enhanced, by improved supporting services. Work is underway to shape this, re-focusing where collaborative arrangements are currently in place.

“The planning of this journey will now commence at pace, with immediate effect and we will continue ensure our workforce and key partners remain informed throughout this process.”

There will be negotiations with Warwickshire Police to identify where efficiencies may remain and be maximised through a different shared service arrangement.