West Mercia Police Christmas work praised by chief

West Mercia Police officers took 8,203 calls over the Christmas period, which covered December 22 to January 1, and dealt with 2,086 crimes, including 829 violent crimes.

Between Christmas Eve and New Year’s day, 15 officers were assaulted.

In Shrewsbury, volunteers from West Mercia Search and Rescue gave up their evenings to protect revellers from danger at the river and across Worcestershire, Herefordshire, Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin members of the Special Constabulary, Street Pastors and other volunteers all played an important part in protecting the public.

Mr Campion said: “It’s important to take the time to thank those who have spent their Christmas break protecting and helping others. Christmas is a busy time for West Mercia Police and officers and staff have professionally dealt with a high volume of demand, supported by volunteers who selflessly give up their time.

"Whilst away from their own families, there were officers who were subjected to assaults. This isn’t an acceptable part of the job, and my campaign encouraging people to get Behind the Badge and support our officers, continues in this new year.

"I am committed to ensuring our communities have the policing resources they need to keep them safe, secure and reassured throughout 2018, and in the future.”

For more information on the Behind the Badge campaign visit westmercia-pcc.gov.uk/working-together/behind-the-badge