THE rollout of body-worn video cameras has now been completed across 1,600 Cheshire Police officers.

Cameras are now being worn by officers and PCSOs across the county in a bid to promote public reassurance, prevent harm and deter anti-social behaviour.

Funding was agreed in April, and the scheme was trialled by firearms, Taser and football spotter officers.

There are now around 1,200 cameras and 200 docking stations across the force, meaning that every officer who comes on shift has access to a camera, usually worn on the chest.

Supt Luke McDonnell, who has led the roll out, said: “Body Worn Video is significantly improving the opportunity for officers to gather good evidence and we have already seen a number of incidents where it has been used to great effect.

“As well as supporting investigations, the footage has also helped clear up complaints against officers and demonstrated the dangers our officers face when attending certain types of incidents.

“We are delighted that our frontline officers and PCSOs now have access to this valuable piece of kit to help them deal with the challenges of modern day policing.”

Police and Crime Commissioner David Keane went out on patrol with officers in Chester back in August to receive a demonstration of the new kit.

He said: “I’m really pleased to have been able to fund the roll-out of body worn video for every frontline police officer in Cheshire as part of one of my key priorities to have ‘a force fit for the future’.

“There is no doubt that this kit is providing extra protection for officers and the public by capturing assaults on police officers and other people on camera.

“It is also pleasing to see that since its introduction, body worn video has been used to support investigations which is ultimately saving a great deal of time and money for both Cheshire Police and the courts.”