CUMBRIANS will receive a tax increase to help fund the police service.

Peter McCall, the county's police and crime commissioner, is seeking the views of the public to help to maintain and improve policing services which includes an increase in the policing part of the council tax.

The police council tax precept is an essential part of the council tax that contributes alongside a central government grant to the total funding available to provide policing, community safety and victims’ services.

Mr McCall said: “Over the last three years working with the Chief Constable and with your support as council tax payers, we have been able to improve the policing service here in Cumbria and make a real difference in tackling crime in our communities.

“Funding for policing does not all come from government grant alone and it is not enough to allow us to recruit further officers, deploy dedicated officers into the community where you want to see them, and pay for our existing service, without an increase in council tax.

"The government has recognised this and is allowing Police and Crime Commissioners to increase the council tax precept by up to £15 per year for a Band D property.

“I realise that many families and businesses are facing financial uncertainty, especially here in Cumbria where we are heavily reliant on the tourism and hospitality sector.

"I am aware that most areas across the country are intending to apply the full £15 charge, but I am proposing an increase of 55p a month, for many it will be less.

"I hope that you will feel able to support this to maintain and improve the strong service given by Cumbria Police."

Residents are urged to complete the survey at: https://www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/TND7OX/

The survey will close at 5pm on January 26 and paper copies of this survey can be obtained by ringing 01768 217734 or emailing commissioner@cumbria-pcc.gov.uk