POLICE will be issued with bullet-resistant vests in the autumn affording them greater protection than ever before.

Around 2,700 police officers and staff working for West Mercia police are currently being measured for the vests which are also stab-resistant.

The vests are being introduced after 19 officers took part in a six- week trial of three types of vest.

Detectives, beat managers, response officers, dog handlers and custody officers wore the vests and then completed a questionnaire stating which one they preferred.

Police chiefs have now awarded a £1m contract to Glasgow-based Second Chance Body Armor UK, which will produce both covert vests, for undercover officers to wear beneath their clothes, and overt vests, worn on top of uniforms.

"The force and the Police Authority have been working to provide this vital equipment for staff as quickly as possible," said Ian Arundale, acting deputy chief constable.

"However, it was essential that we provided vests that offered high levels of protection but which were also practical and comfortable to wear.

"It was important that we gave those who would be using them a say in the process."