The impact of austerity measures on frontline policing is an issue that gives everyone cause for concern.

The fear of crime is something that affects all of us, and has touched all of us, to a greater or lesser extent.

And anything that seems as if it might affect the number of frontline officers tackling criminal behaviour on our streets will obviously touch a nerve.

So the fact that West Yorkshire Police is set to axe more than 800 police officer posts as part of an overall reduction of 1,960 jobs by 2015 is bound to be greeted with consternation.

No matter what the reassurances are from those within the force that this is being achieved by ‘streamlining backroom functions’, it is difficult to see how such wide-reaching job losses cannot have some frontline impact.

But despite these cuts, it does seem that West Yorkshire is striving relatively successfully to keep their impact to a minimum.

HM Inspectorate of Constabulary, which outlines the breakdown of jobs lost in a new report, also points out that the force has proportionately more officers on frontline duties that almost any other in England and Wales.

And it praises West Yorkshire for the way it has achieved its savings, pointing out that crime rates in the force area have decreased.

The positive message is echoed by the Police Federation, who acknowledge the force is retaining frontline policing.

Concerns remain about the sheer volume of money being saved and, as a result, of jobs being lost.

But at the same time, West Yorkshire Police must be given credit for managing a very difficult situation in a very positive way.