DORSET Police are looking into the possibility of a 'strategic alliance' with the Devon and Cornwall force, under further cost-cutting measures.

It comes after Dorset PCC Martyn Underhill outlined proposals earlier this week to increase the police precept by 1.95 per cent next year – which equates to a seven pence weekly increase for an average household.

Now, police chiefs claim the move to explore how the two forces can collaborate would have 'no detrimental impact' on services delivered across the three counties.

Dorset PCC Martyn Underhill said 'difficult decisions are having to be made' with both forces facing real challenges achieving further savings.

A joint announcement, issued from the Police and Crime Commissioners and Chief Constables of Devon and Cornwall Police and Dorset Police, said: “The two force areas have announced today that a joint project team will be created to explore how the two forces can collaborate effectively across all areas of policing.

“This announcement marks the start of a long process which will consider a number of factors, including how policing services can be maintained to a high standard for the communities within both force areas, at a time when police budgets are reducing.”