THE Avon and Somerset Police Commissioner, Sue Mountstevens, has pledged that her force will continue to have premises in Minehead.

Speaking at a drop-in event today at Minehead Eye, she said she wanted to close the existing police station, which is too big for her force’s needs.

“We are staying in Minehead. Full stop. We are talking to other agencies about co-location in Minehead,” Ms Mountstevens said.

“I won’t close Minehead police station until we have somewhere else in Minehead.”

The commissioner was talking to Minehead town councillor Andy Lewis, who said:“I asked the commissioner if I could quote her on what she said about staying in Minehead. She said yes.

“Her statements are sensible and reassuring, after a period when irresponsible speculation led by our Member of Parliament Ian Liddell-Grainger has caused much concern in the town.

“The commissioner made clear to me that Avon and Somerset police is subject to national budget pressures, which might squeeze resources.

"But at the same time she was very clear that the police will maintain a presence in Minehead." 

PCC Sue Mountstevens was in Minehead and Dulverton today as part of a West Somerset Community Day.

MP Ian Liddell-Grainger released a statement last month saying he was concerned there would be no police presence left in Minehead if the current station was closed and a new base was found in Williton.