A major shake-up of how police and fire services across West Mercia are governed has been approved by the Home Secretary.

Police and Crime Commissioner John Campion put forward the controversial joint governance proposals last year. They were given the green light yesterday.

It means that from April, Mr Campion will also be responsible for governing Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service and its Hereford and Worcester counterpart, replacing their respective fire authorities.

Mr Campion said: “This represents a real opportunity to build safer communities, which are served by more effective, efficient emergency services. The improvements I aim to deliver have been clear and consistent throughout this process and I will work tirelessly to make sure ‘potential’ benefits on paper, become realities.”

“Our fire authorities have laid good foundations to build from, for which we are all grateful. However, the change to single governance will enable new ways of working that will benefit our communities and our emergency services alike.

“It will ensure our services are sharing their resources, knowledge and expertise where it makes sense to do so. It will deliver a more efficient use of public money, and it will make sure more of that money is directed where it should be – towards the frontline services that we all value so much.”

West Mercia Police welcomed the announcement with chief constable Anthony Bangham adding: "We already work very closely with our emergency service colleagues in fire and rescue and this news further enhances our opportunity to develop this working relationship.

"This announcement enables us to provide an even more efficient and effective response to better protect communities across West Mercia. I welcome our new joint-working arrangements."