Police base vital for Ellesmere says MP Owen Paterson

North Shropshire MP Owen Paterson said it was 'very clear' that a police presence was needed in Ellesmere even if the existing police station in Grange Road has to close.

Mr Paterson and Bill Longmore, West Mercia's police and crime commissioner, backed plans to set aside a room in the town's nearby fire station for police to use. It comes after Mr Longmore last month unveiled plans to close three police stations in Shropshire, including Ellesmere's, under plans to save up to £20 million.

The pair made their comments on a visit to Ellesmere organised by the town's Shropshire councillor Ann Hartley, who is leading the public campaign to retain a police presence.

Mr Paterson, who is also the Environment Secretary, said: "We all understand West Mercia has got to make savings but we also all agreed that Ellesmere is a growing town. Nobody was hung up about the actual police building, but very clear that they need a police presence and a base so they can reach incidents quickly."

Mr Longmore described Ellesmere as a 'thriving community' and said people campaigning to keep a local police station had the interests of the town at heart.

Councillor Hartley said she had requested the meeting because she wanted Mr Longmore to get a feel for the area before a decision was made.

She said: "We put forward our ideas and Mr Longmore was very receptive of them."

She added the fact that the town is a low crime area was 'not a reason to take away the police presence'.

Mayor Alan Clark and other town council representatives were also present along with members of the Chamber of Trade.

The plans are out to consultation and final recommendations are due by the end of the month.