HOME Secretary Charles Clarke yesterday denied the Government was forcing through plans to merge West Mercia Police with neighbouring forces while on a whistlestop tour of Redditch.

Mr Clarke spoke about the possible merger with Warwickshire, Staffordshire and West Midlands forces during his visit to the Batchley Caf in Poplar Road.

He said the merger, which is unpopular with West Mercia police chiefs and residents, was needed to protect local neighbourhood policing, even when major incidents occurred.

And he added: "Three of the four forces want to merge and that's why we are going ahead."

West Mercia Police Authority has vowed to continue pressing the Home Office to see the benefits of a West Mercia Strategic Force working with nearby forces.

Mr Clarke also spoke to Batchley residents about CCTV and antisocial behaviour in the area.

He said his visit had been "inspiring" and commended the partnership between Redditch Council and the police.

He said help from the community was necessary in the fight against antisocial behaviour.

"What's very positive is all the communication and being inter-dependant," he said.

"It's a matter of choice as it doesn't just happen - I could take you to parts of the country and local councils where it does not happen."