Two newly structured Local Police Areas (LPAs) have been formed in Dorset in order to improve local response for communities.

The Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) Council area which forms the BCP LPA will be led by Chief Superintendent Mark Callaghan. The County LPA, which covers the Dorset County Council area, will be led by Chief Superintendent Steve Lyne.

Assistant Chief Constable Sam de Reya said: “Dorset Police is dedicated to providing an outstanding service to the people of Dorset, particularly the most vulnerable in our communities.

“By taking this approach we can focus in on the issues that our communities are facing and provide a robust, engaging, proactive and visible policing presence.

“We want to take this opportunity to form strong connections with our communities and partnership agencies so that we can properly listen, understand and respond to local issues and concerns.”

National investment has already seen 50 new officers join Dorset Police, with a target of a further 50 over the next year.