COMMUNITY leaders across the town have joined forces to speak out at their 'deep shock' over the suspension of Redditch's top police officer.

Chief Supt Patsy Lord has been suspended from duty after serious allegations of misconduct made from within the police force.

Community leaders have pledged their support of Chief Supt Lord and are writing to the Home Secretary David Blunkett, the chairman of West Mercia Police Authority and the Chief Constable to air their views.