Simon Hayes, Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) for Hampshire, today issued a final appeal to the public to support a fair funding deal for Hampshire’s police force.

The comments came on the same day police chiefs submitted their formal response to a key government consultation on funding which closes September 15.

Mr Hayes said: “I would like to express my sincere thanks to the large number of residents, media and stakeholders who have already made clear their support, raised this matter with their local MPs, and helped to raise the profile of the debate on cuts to policing.

“Despite the fact that policing in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight loses out to the tune of £10m every year our police force remains a low cost and high performing force. We want to keep it that way so it is crucial that the voice of Hampshire and the Isle of Wight is heard.

"These next 24 hours could be crucial.”