BODY-WORN video cameras will be made available to police officers in Cheshire following funding approved by the county’s police and crime commissioner.

David Keane has agreed to fund cameras for frontline officers with the new equipment set to be in operation by the end of this year.

It follows the roll-out of the kit to firearms officers last year and Taser officers and football spotters earlier this month.

Mr Keane said: “Body-worn video is an invaluable addition to our officers’ kit and will improve the effectiveness of policing in Cheshire, helping us to provide a force fit for the future.

“We’ve already seen the benefits of the technology since it was introduced to firearms officers last year, and I’m pleased to fund the roll-out of the equipment for the entire force.

“The kit provides better protection for officers and an increased chance of prosecution for offenders with assaults on police officers and other people evidenced on camera.

“I also believe that the cameras will help to deter some crime and modify the behaviours of those being filmed, saving a great deal of time and money for both Cheshire Constabulary and the courts.”

The officers will dock the device when they return to the station from their shift and the footage will be automatically stored on the force’s central records.