WEST Mercia's Police and Crime Commissioner has called on the government to act on providing resources for local policing amid concerns over announcements made in the autumn budget.

John Campion wrote an open letter to Diana Johnson MP, minister of state for policing, fire and crime prevention.

In the letter, Mr Campion outlined several challenges that the police force covering Herefordshire, Shropshire and Worcestershire would face due to the autumn budget.

The commissioner shared concerns that, should it apply to police forces, the increase in national insurance would cost £4 million, something the organisation did not have the budget for.

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Mr Campion was first elected as West Mercia's PCC in 2016 and received re-election in 2021 and 2024.

He previously served as a councillor for Wyre Forest District Council and Worcestershire County Council.

He added: "I am calling on the government to clearly set out its funding plans to ensure local policing is protected in West Mercia.

"With a 10 per cent reduction in crimes over the past 12 months, I want to ensure this long-term downward trajectory continues.

"Following the budget announcement, I am concerned that the uncertainty on police may dent this progress.

"With funding challenges mounting, it's vital more resources are made available to protect frontline services in West Mercia."