CRAVEN residents are being invited to have their say on the Home Secretary's wish to amalgamate some police forces.

North Yorkshire Police and the local Police Authority are inviting the public to comment on the proposals, which would produce bigger police services.

It is claimed that such forces would be better able to fight serious crime and deal with major incidents.

However, the Craven Herald believes it will lead to a reduced police presence in rural towns such as Skipton and the closure of smaller police stations such as Grassington as resources are concentrated on larger centres of population.

Jane Kenyon, chairman of the police authority, said: "We have been asked to report to the Home Secretary on options for change by October 31 and on our preferred solution by December 23. This timescale is incredibly challenging.

"We have published a questionnaire on our websites where we are seeking the public's initial views on the restructure issues. As we go into November and December, we will be also seeking views on specific proposals."

The website addresses are: northyorkshire.pnn.police.uk and nypa.org.

Chief Constable Della Cannings said: "The changes proposed will be a watershed in the history of policing, bringing about major changes to ensure the police service is fit for purpose in the 21st century.

"It is critical, though, to ensure that communities receive improved policing and are involved in shaping the future of policing."

People without the internet can request a copy of the questionnaire by phoning 0845 6060247 and asking for the consultation officer.

Meanwhile Lancashire Police Authority member and Barnoldswick councillor David Whipp has blasted the proposed merger of local police forces.

He told an authority meeting in Preston: "It masquerades as modernisation and action but is no more than shuffling the deck chairs.

"I am aghast at the prospect of a regional police force. There is a democratic deficit with such centralisation. At present, local residents are able to influence policing priorities and resources. All that would be lost."

Coun Whipp also warned of the difficulties of the "least worst option" - a merger with Cumbria.

He said this would lead to council tax "harmonization". Lancashire's council tax for policing is £107 per average household, Cumbria's is £155.