WEST Mercia Police have launched a new, more user-friendly website with a host of extra features.

Enhancements on westmercia.

police.uk include the ability for users to receive automatic updates direct to their computer whenever things such as news or job vacancies are added. It also boasts a full search facility.

Chief Superintendent Nick Mason, head of the force’s strategy performance and communications department, said: “The internet is now a key part of people's everyday lives, with many people choosing to gather their local information online.

“West Mercia was the first police force in England and Wales to launch a website in 1995, but the pace of change of the internet means there a continuous need to improve.

"Our new site builds upon the strengths of the old, but provides a much more modern platform for us to manage and develop our online presence for the future. This is just the first phase of our redevelopment programme and we are continuing to look at new ways to improve."

Visitors can visit the website to find information about their local policing teams and the current priorities being addressed in the neighbourhood. They can also find comprehensive contact details for their local officers, information on how to get involved with PACT (Partners And Communities Together) initiatives and view crime statistics from their local area.

The new Get Involved section highlights the wide-range of volunteering opportunities within the West Mercia force area, while there is also a comprehensive online advice centre giving simple, practical information on how to avoid becoming a victim of crime.

Topics include personal safety, home and garden security, counter-terrorism and road safety, while there is also a competition giving students a chance to win a Nintendo Wii and property marking kit.