OFFICERS in Dorset will be issued with body cameras as part of a bid to make the police more accountable.

The plans to give officers audio and video recording devices - also known as body worn video - are part of a joint project between Dorset Police and Devon and Cornwall Police.

It is hoped that all operational front line officers will be provided with the devices.

The cameras will be used to record incident and encounters, making police more transparent and officers more accountable.

Dorset Police operational lead, Superintendent Richard Bell, said: “All officers will receive training on the use of cameras and our legal responsibilities.

“The cameras will be docked and downloaded every shift, and files will be tagged for evidence.

“A large scale trial, involving 100 plus cameras at Bridport, Weymouth and Bournemouth is due to commence in summer 2016.”

Martyn Underhill, Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner, said: “Body worn videos increase the evidence gathering ability of the police, especially in domestic abuse and public order scenarios.

“Cameras can help diffuse difficult situations as people behave differently when told they are being filmed.

“The cameras also prove extremely useful for officers facing extreme violence and can be used to assist a court when an officer is assaulted. They can also be useful in the case of a complaint against police.

“Public surveys undertaken by me over three years have shown consistent support from the public in introducing this tactic to the policing of Dorset.

“Body worn videos are a win-win scenario for the police, the victim and the courts.”