DORSET Police has formally agreed an alliance with the Devon and Cornwall force to save money.

It is stressed the move it not a merger rather than what is known as a 'strategic alliance' as the forces will remain as separate organisations.

The forces agreed to explore the alliance in December 2013 and the move has now been agreed.

Police hailed the agreement as a 'symbolic milestone' around how they will deliver services across the three counties in future.

The aim is to maintain a high standard of policing services at a time when police budgets are being slashed.

Working together more closely will allow the forces to continue to provide effective policing while meeting financial challenges.

Initial plans have already highlighted savings of at least £12 million spread across both forces.

The move was formalised when both Police and Crime Commissioners and Chief Constables signed a legal agreement under the Police Act.

In the future, policing will be delivered jointly by the forces under one operating model, leading to shared leadership in some functions.

Over the next 12 months, the organisations will consider which functions should be delivered jointly.

Investigations will also be made into whether some services can be being delivered externally.

PCC for Dorset Martyn Underhill said: "We are facing unprecedented times in policing. We need to deliver more for less and this alliance will help us achieve that.

"Today, I have made the biggest decision in my term of office. We have formally decided that Devon & Cornwall Police do have a role in shaping our future policing. This alliance will achieve savings, help improve efficiency, allow some re-investment and secure Dorset’s reputation as one of the safest places in the country."

Dorset Police Chief Constable Debbie Simpson added: "I am excited to announce that Dorset Police has formally committed to working alongside Devon & Cornwall Police in a strategic alliance.

"They are a high performing force with colleagues who share our values, priorities and absolute determination to deliver the best possible service to local people. They recognise and share our need to meet the funding challenges affecting policing nationwide. Elements of our geography and some of our communities are also similar, which makes an alliance achievable and practical."