Here's how Warwickshire Police plans to use extra funds from increase in council tax

The money, which will come from increased council tax payments, was announced by the county’s Police and Crime Commissioner Philip Seccombe who has committed to use the police precept increase to boost visible policing.

Mr Seccombe explained: “When asking the public for increased contributions for policing through their council tax over the past two years, I promised to make sure that Warwickshire Police had the resources it needed to give extra focus to the issues that matter most to communities.

"I thank residents for their support in giving that extra funding and want to make sure they know how it is being used effectively.

“Vehicle crime, rural crime and neighbourhood policing in our town centres are among the topics I get most feedback from the public on, so I am pleased to see these will all now be getting enhanced focus. I am sure this is something communities across the county will also welcome.”

In detail, the additional precept funding will see:

Two vehicle crime teams launched – one based at Bedworth and one at Greys Mallory near Warwick.

The doubling in size of the Rural Crime Team which was launched last year – the four extra PCs will be split between Stratford, Atherstone and Rugby.

Five new Safer Neighbourhood Team (SNT) police officers recruited across the county focusing on foot patrol in town centres, providing additional visibility and working with local businesses to identify and address any concerns.

Warwickshire Police’s Chief Constable Martin Jelley said: “I am extremely pleased to announce these additional initiatives that will help make our communities safer.

“Rural crime and vehicle crime are two very important issues which can cause huge distress and financial hardship to victims, and we are determined to address this.

“Similarly, our Safer Neighbourhood Teams are vital in our communities to work with residents and businesses to resolve local concerns and we believe the addition of these officers will have a substantial impact in supporting the existing teams.