BODY-worn video cameras are now being issued to police officers in north Worcestershire after police commissioner John Campion signed off a £1 million investment.

The cameras will be used by officers in Kidderminster, Stourport, Bewdley, Hagley, Bromsgrove, Redditch and surrounding rural communities as part of the commissioner's commitment to a modern police force.

Use of the cameras elsewhere has reduced complaints against police officers, helped prevent crime and provided clear evidence of incidents.

Officers in Malvern were the first to pilot the technology in April, followed by Telford and South Worcestershire. In the coming months, the cameras will be issued to officers in Shropshire, south Warwickshire and Herefordshire.

Mr Campion said: “This technology plays a big part in my vision for a reformed, reassured and safer West Mercia and I am pleased to see it being rolled out ahead of schedule.

"It is already clear that the increased transparency which the video provides is reassuring both the public and our officers, giving our communities greater confidence in the police service.

"The higher quality of evidence this delivers provides a higher quality of service for victims and increases the chance of justice being served.

Chief Superintendent Mark Travis said: "The public feedback given to our staff has been overwhelmingly positive. We wholeheartedly welcome this valuable addition to the tools we have at our disposal, helping to prevent crime and protect our communities from harm.”