THE region's police chief has welcomed a report into how police deal with deaths in custody.

The review, led by Dame Elish Angiolini QC, has made a number of recommendations including the introduction of 'drying-out centres' for those in custody and under the influence of alcohol or drugs, video cameras for all frontline officers and in every police van used to transport prisoners.

It also made recommendations to prevent former police officers from investigating misconduct and for the Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC) to have a 24-hour response team for deaths in custody,

Police and Crime Commissioner John Campion said: "I welcome this report and agree with the Home Secretary that we should be learning lessons and delivering change.

"Police officers carry out difficult roles with honesty and integrity and I am assured by the improvements that West Mercia Police have made already.

"I will continue to hold the Chief to account to ensure the recommendations are met, for the communities we serve.

"Those who volunteer their own time as part of my Independent Custody Visitor Scheme play a very important role, providing scrutiny and helping to deliver a high level of public confidence in the police.

"I’d like to thank them for all they do to ensure the safety and welfare of detainees.

"My recent investment in body worn video, is also making a huge impact in terms of transparency.

"The cameras capture all aspects of the police dealing with the public, and our communities can be reassured by the professional behaviour demonstrated by West Mercia Police.”

Following the publication of the report, the National Police Chiefs’ Council and College of Policing have launched a video to help officers recognise a medical emergency in custody and act quickly to resolve it.

The video, entitled ’60 Seconds to Save a Life’, will help officers to consider the risks of restraint and act quickly where there could be potential risks to health.