CUMBRIA's Police and Crime Commissioner has welcomed support received on the proposal to increase the policing part of the council tax as part of the budget setting process.

It is proposed that the policing council tax precept would be increased by 5.42 per cent for the next financial year 2018/19.

This is an increase of £11.97per year for a band D property and takes the total policing element of the council tax at Band D to £232.74 per year.

PCC Peter McCall said: “I would like to thank the public of Cumbria for their clear message of support to increase the policing part of the council tax.

“An increase in council tax is never welcome but I firmly believe that your safety is paramount."

Mr McCall added the extra funding would contribute to funding 25 additional police officers, 95 PCSOs, an increased armed response, would offer greater protection and make it easier to contact the police.

He said: "This will be a real boost to front line policing addressing your local concerns such as anti-social behaviour and at the same time meeting the emerging pressures rising demand such as online-crime.

“Now that I have gathered your views, the Chief Constable’s recommendation and support from the Police Crime Panel I will be able to finalise the budget which will be done formally at my Public Accountability Conference on Wednesday 14 February.”

Chief Constable Jerry Graham said: “I’d like to thank everyone who supported us during this recent consultation. I believe this additional money will have a significant impact on the quality of local policing services we can offer in your communities.

“This investment will secure a future for independent local policing in Cumbria in keeping you and your family safe.”