RESIDENTS of Alcester are being reminded they can have their say on the future of policing in the area at a special meeting tonight (Wednesday, November 16).

A public meeting will be held at 6.30pm at Stratford High School, Alcester Road, Stratford, where the county's police force and police authority will present options for reform to residents, who will also have the opportunity to ask questions on the proposals.

Last week, Home Secretary Charles Clarke announced the possibility of cutting the number of forces in England and Wales from 43 to possibly as few as 12.

And in its first response to the Home Office last month, Warwickshire suggested either merging with West Midlands Police to form a strategic force, or joining Staffordshire, West Mercia, Warwickshire and West Midlands to create a new regional force.

County, district and borough councillors, as well as representatives from the Crime and Disorder Reduction Partnerships and the local Criminal Justice Board, have already been consulted on the proposals.

And now views from members of the public, gained from a number of public meetings across the county, will help make up the final detailed proposals to be submitted to the Home Office on December 23.

Phil Blundell, chairman of Warwickshire Police Authority, said: "We have an opportunity here to bring together the best of both worlds - the strength of the region and local accountability for policing in Warwickshire."

Members of the public can also record their views on the Warwickshire Police and police authority websites on www.warwickshire.police.uk and www.warwickshirepa.gov.uk