WARWICKSHIRE police chief John Burbeck was in Bidford on Friday to officially open the new community police office.

The base, the first of its kind in the county, is in the new state-of-the-art Bidford Library, Bramley Way, and heralds a new partnership between the police and Warwickshire County Council's library and information service.

It will be used as a base for Bidford beat officer Pc Peter Gateley, as well as special constables and community support officers to meet people from the village and surrounding communities.

Officers say working from the new office will not only make police more accessible, it will also reduce time spent travelling to and from the beat, thereby increasing time spent on patrol.

The location of the office is ideal with the combined building already housing the primary school, library and parish council office.

Appointments can be made with the beat officer by calling 01789 762207 and dialling voice mail 10440.

Messages can then be left for Pc Gateley, who will arrange a time to meet callers at the office.

Contact forms are also available during library opening times or Pc Gateley can also be contacted by e-mail at:

peter.gateley@warwickshire.police.uk

Insp Tim Bailey, of Alcester police, said: "This is an excellent partnership opportunity and will allow police officers to be based in the heart of Bidford, making us more accessible and increasing our time spent on the beat.

"I am particularly grateful to the library and information service which has supported this new venture - the first of its kind in Warwickshire."