HEREFORDSHIRE has an arresting case for cash to boost its country cops, says the county man who chairs West Mercia Police Authority.

Brian Watkins believes resources to reassure rural areas could be heading this way given Government intentions to increase investment in provincial policing.

Mr Watkins, of Weobley, says Herefordshire's need for more officers is accepted at divisional, headquarters and police authority level.

Recent trends have seen personnel deployed to areas deemed in 'greatest need'.

This has led to claims that West Mercia Constabulary was favouring urban beats, with the county not getting value for its recently-raised council-tax precept for policing.

But funding for rural forces is about to be increased nationally.

Current Government spending formulae have been found wanting when accounting for 'sparsity factors' and the extra cash is likely to run into tens of millions of pounds.

In Herefordshire, the announcement is seen as a chance to head off growing public disenchantment over police presence, particularly in the parishes.

Mr Watkins recognises a need to adopt more visible rural policing strategies. The county's case for an increase in officer strength is accepted at all levels.

However, warns Mr Watkins, any new assignment will only make a difference over time. It takes around two years to turn a probationary constable into a fully-fledged Pc.

Morale among officers already on the ground is affected by the situation. Many have described themselves as frustrated at being unable to meet expectations.

Herefordshire Council voted last month to officially inform West Mercia of its concern at officer availability in the area.