THE number of police officers armed with Tasers could rise to 250 under new plans.

Dorset Police are asking the public for their opinion on the project, which could see the number increase from 83 to 250 over the next two to three years.

It is hoped the move will lead to better protection for communities, with officers able to deal with incidents in more isolated and rural areas when there is a threat or risk to life.

They have reassured the public that the review has no link to a terrorist threat, and will not affect firearms officers.

Superintendent Nicky Searle, who is leading the project for Dorset, said: "As we are reviewing the number of officers trained to carry Taser and want to hear the public’s views on whether this should be extended.

"We are one of the most rural forces in England and our resources are at times thinly spread. Every day, police officers across Dorset are called to deal with incidents involving aggression, violence and weapons.

"We want the public to know that suitably trained and equipped officers can arrive promptly and deal with any incident as quickly, safely and efficiently as possible.

"This review will help us to determine the best way to ensure we have sufficient resilience to keep both communities and police officers safe."

Between 2010 and 2015, officers used Tasers on 401 occasions - around 0.03 per cent of all incidents attended during this time.

Officers only fired a Taser on 85 occasions, at just 0.007 per cent of total incidents in that period.

It comes after an officer used pepper spray on a group of teenagers during an incident in which he was allegedly bitten in Christchurch last week.

Superintendent Searle continued: "The chances of officers using a Taser are very small and we do not believe this would increase other than proportionately with a roll out of more authorised officers.

"What we do believe is that those wanting to cause harm through the use of weapons can be more effectively, quickly and safely dealt with if an officer has a Taser.

"That means an increase in the numbers would better protect communities.

"Police officers appreciate they work in what at times can be considered a threatening environment, but that does not mean they shouldn’t be protected as much as possible from harm."

The review is backed by Dorset Police Federation and is expected to make recommendations to the Chief Constable in 2017.