Merger plans which could see Craven losing most of its police officers are to be fought by its crime prevention panel

The force's current boundary and structure review could result in Craven losing its divisional status, with the management being transferred elsewhere.

It is feared that, instead of having a superintendent in charge, Craven could be left with just an inspector.

But Craven Crime Prevention Panel members believe this would lead to a reduction in vital services.

Chairman Janet Gott said: "We need to fight any merger like mad. To start to downgrade us to just an inspector is shameful.

"This division has worked hard, and has done better than everyone else. Now it seems we have to pay for our success."

Over the past few years, Craven has recorded the best crime reduction figures in the county, but the panel feared this happy position could not be maintained if the division was merged with a more urban area.

"We are going to be the poor relations when it comes to setting budgets," said Mrs Gott. "They have no concept of what is going on here. Craven is unique, and is totally different to the rest of North Yorkshire."

Members will write to chief constable David Kenworthy expressing strong concern. Copies of the letter have also been sent to Home Secretary Jack Straw, local MP David Curry, and Angela Harris, chairman of the North Yorkshire Police Authority.

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