CONCERNS have been raised over a lack of police officers leading to an increase in certain crimes.

Residents are said to be increasingly fearful after a number of attempted burglaries in Furness.

It led Dalton North councillor Ben Shirley to ask for assurances from Cumbria Police's chief constable Michelle Skeer that residents would not be 'left behind'.

Speaking at meeting of Cumbria County Council, he said: "Despite Cumbria seeing an increase in police numbers, areas like mine in Dalton North are seeing an increase in the number of attempted and indeed completed burglaries in homes and local businesses.

"We have lost one PCSO who has been seconded to another ward in the area and local people tell me they are concerned by the reduced presence of the police.

"What assurances can you give to the business leaders and families that I represent that are concerned about the lack of PCSOs in our rural towns and villages?

Explaining the question he said: " I wanted to make the case for our area to make sure that we're not forgotten about and we're not left behind.

"We still require a neighbourhood police presence as a minimum."

Mr Shirley said he was encouraged by the chief constable's response and will meet the police superintendent for south Cumbria to discuss the issue.

Barrow police inspector Jim Bailey said: "We've had to move police resources to the greatest area of need and that's meant the centre of Barrow.

"It's not a decision I've taken lightly."