POLICE in Beaminster have moved into the town's fire station in a new emergency services partnership.

Beaminster Neighbourhood Policing Team (NPT) moved into the community fire station on Clay Lane on Wednesday.

The team will share facilities with the newly combined Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service. Patrol officers will also use the station while they are on duty in the Beaminster area.

West Dorset chief inspector Ian Roe, said: "We are policing Dorset in difficult economic times, but by sharing locations we reduce our operating costs, helping achieve our ongoing efficiency savings.

“Moving locations in order to reduce estate costs will allow us to continue providing a first class service to the community.

“Operating from the same location also means we are able to further enhance the collaboration that already exists between Dorset firefighters and police officers.”

Beaminster NPT was working from the police station on Bridport Road. The existing site which includes a former police house is not yet been sold.

West Dorset district commander for Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Jason Rogers welcomed the move and believes it will "provide the best possible value for money".

He said: "We are looking forward to welcoming Beaminster’s police officers and staff into the station.

“We share a commitment to keeping our communities in Dorset safe and welcome the opportunity to provide a base for Beaminster's NPT.

“Working in partnership with Dorset Police to keep our communities safe is key for Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service and initiatives such as this ensure we provide the best possible value for money for our communities."