SOUTH Cumbria's top police officer said he was "privileged" to be in charge of local policing as a new state-of-the art police station opens its doors.

Locals will be able to get a sneak peek inside this Sunday (6) when visitors will be taken on guided tours of the new Andrews Way building, Barrow, on Sunday from 10am to 3pm station, including a visit to the 18 cell custody area. 

The dog unit, police motorbike and armed response vehicles will also be there and children will be able to have their finger prints taken. 

Admission is free and  light refreshments available.

Police and Crime Commissioner, Richard Rhodes said: “I am delighted that we have been able to provide Cumbria Constabulary with a state-of-the-art police station in Barrow. I am looking forward to show-casing this fabulous new facility to the community at the open day.

“It is set to be an impressive day starting with the new building and moving to the equipment that is used in day-to-day policing. I hope as many people can come and join us at this unique opportunity.”

Chief Constable Jerry Graham said: “The new station is very impressive and the Constabulary is very much looking forward to moving in and operating from there next month.

“The open day is a great opportunity to see the station, learn more about policing and meet those who work all year round to protect people and tackle crime and disorder.”

South Cumbria area commander Rob O'Conner said: "Having visited the new Police Station on many occasions recently it is a fantastic facility, which will allow us to provide policing services to the communities of South Cumbria for many years to come’ ‘ I feel particularly privileged to be in charge of policing in south Cumbria and leading my staff into the new building. I echo the comments of the PCC and Chief Constable in that I extend an invite to the public to come and see the new Police Station, and see what it offers, and recognise that the staff who will be working from there will have excellent facilities which will allow them to deliver day to day’

The current police station in Market Street has not yet been sold.