MORE than 60 per cent of people are in favour of the region's police and crime commissioner taking over the fire service, a consultation has revealed.

The consultation was launched over proposals for West Mercia Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) John Campion taking over the running of both Shropshire and Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Services - a move that he claims would save £4 million a year.

More than 1,300 responses were received during the three month consultation, of which 61 per cent said they supported the idea.

In Worcestershire, which made up 42 per cent of total responses, 58 per cent were in favour.

The predominant reason among supporters was 'financial considerations'.

Mr Campion said: “My focus throughout this process has been on building a safer West Mercia and delivering the best services for our communities.”

“I have engaged with thousands of people on this subject over the last few months in a number of different ways and I am grateful to everyone who took part in the consultation.

"Their message is clear: Our communities expect their emergency services to collaborate properly in order to improve services and they want resources prioritised towards vital frontline officers and equipment.

“I have always said I was open minded about this subject and would be guided by our communities.

"I will listen to their views in determining what happens next, as well as taking on feedback from other stakeholders."

The results of the public consultation follow Worcestershire County Council's rejection of the take-over.

At a meeting on September 14, county councillors unanimously backed a substantive motion stating the proposals would not be in the interests of improving public safety or the economy, efficiency and effectiveness of the service.

Members vowed to send a letter to the PCC for consideration as part of the consultation.

West Mercia Police is implementing savings of £9.5 million this year with a further £21.9 million projected by the end of 2020/21. Mr Campion argues that the changes would help meet these challenges.