FRONT counters at the county's police stations have reverted back to usual hours following the lifting of lockdown.

West Mercia Police say front counters at stations, including the city's Castle Street station, are now open from 8am to 6.30pm Monday to Saturday and 10am to 4pm on Sunday, after the area was placed in tier 2.

Front counters are open so that the public can call for appointments with police officers, report crime and ask for advice.

Superintendent Rik Klair said: “We’d like to thank the public for their on-going co-operation over recent weeks and now that some of the recent restrictions have lifted it is right that we revert our front counters back to normal opening hours.

“I’d also like to remind people that a range of incidents can be reported to us directly via our website. Remember, if it’s not 999 you can report it online.”

The police stress reports of antisocial behaviour, theft, criminal damage, suspected Covid-19 breaches and road traffic collisions made online at westmercia.police.uk are handled in the same way as 101 calls.

And the force encourages people to use the online tool, as it will help free up call lines ensuring they can prioritise emergencies effectively.