BODY-worn video (BWV) cameras are becoming increasingly important in policing in West Mercia, crime commissioner John Campion has said.

In his annual report, Mr Campion says that in an average month his officers record over 13,000 clips, of which more than 2,000 are used in evidence.

He said: “BWV is playing a significant part in my plans to reform and modernise West Mercia Police, and I am pleased to see it having such a positive impact for victims, communities and the police.

“Not only does it provide a better service for victims, with high-quality evidence which increases the chance of conviction, but it also has the effect of reassuring officers or where applicable, it makes the police service more accountable.

“This increased transparency helps to reassure the public and gives our communities greater confident in the police service.

“Another benefit of BWV is that it can now be shared digitally with the Crown prosecution Service to use in court and charging decisions, saving time for both the police and the justice system.

“Last year I met with Deputy Justices Clerk Jonathan Price from HM Courts and tribunals Service to discuss my concerns on the continued impact of centralising remand hearings.

“ I believe this denies communities local access to justice and puts additional train on police resources. One solution put forward was the use of video remand hearings , which I agreed to explore further.

“This initiative is supported by partners as it would eliminate the need to move detainees from Herefordshire and Shropshire to the centralised remand court at Kidderminster.”

Mr Campion said that in the last year, he has funded the recruitment of 100 more officers, bringing West Mercia to 2,145, its highest number since 2012.