PEOPLE in West Mercia are being put at risk because hundreds of police officers have vanished from communities say the Police Federation.

The Federation today (Thursday) launches its #CutsHaveConsequences campaign, warning of a 'bleak future' for the public.

The organisation which represents the area’s 1,800 frontline police officers fears the impact of £36.9 million budget cuts.

The force has lost 19 per cent of its police officers over the past four years - a higher percentage than other forces in England and Wales.

Russell Yeomans, chairman elect of West Mercia Police Federation, said: “The thin blue line is getting thinner. It is a very alarming trend. The public are being put at risk and it is only going to get worse.

“In total, the force has lost more than 450 officers in the past four years. That’s 450 fewer officers to serve you, protect you and to catch criminals.

“At a time when we are under greater threat of online crime and terror attacks, we have fewer officers available when we need them the most.”

Some of the other consequences of cuts at West Mercia Police closing 33 police buildings to save £1.5m.

Front counters will close at 21 police stations and opening hours cut at another six.

Police buildings are to be shared with other public services while the force is planning to share vehicles with the fire service from outside the force area.

David Shaw, Chief Constable of West Mercia Police, said: "Crime is falling and the types of crime are changing meaning that policing today is a different ball game.

"It is a fact of life that there will be more savings required but I am confident that we can meet those challenges and at the same time provide a police force that effectively and consistently protects people from harm."