ONE of the candidates for the upcoming Avon and Somerset Police and Crime Commissioner elections has said it is 'realistic' to keep Burnham's police station open.

Mark Weston, Conservative PCC candidate, revealed in a Freedom of Information request that 12 police stations across the area are currently in the process of vacated, closed or sold.

A further 13 are being looked at to save money.

With the support of Burnham's MP James Heappey, Mark has been campaigning to keep the town's station open.

He said: He said: "There are currently 13 police stations 'under review' and facing an uncertain future due to the need to save money. However, the financial situation has improved since this list was drawn up.

"I also believe that by working with neighbouring Forces that we will be able to make savings in our back offices in order to invest in front line policing.

"In my opinion police stations play a vital role in combating crime, especially in more rural places like Burnham, and the police need a proper presence in the town.

"This is especially true in the summer when Brean Sands, and the other holidays parks, open as the population in the area increases dramatically.

"They can't just be moved to a desk in the library - they need a proper base from which to operate.

"I think it is realistic and reasonable to keep Burnham police station open.

"If elected I will make community policing a priority with a strong presence in the area."

James Heappey MP supports the campaign, stating that the town 'needs a police station of its own.'

He said: "Burnham and Highbridge needs a police station of its own to make residents feel secure and to provide a base for policing in the town- and nearby- during the summer when the population increases with all our visitors.

"I support Conservative Police and Crime Commissioner candidate in calling for the decision to be suspended."

Police stations in Bath, Avonmouth, Bishopsworth, Bower Ashton, Bourneville, Cheddar, Southmead, Frome, Keynsham, Nailsea, Minehead and Burnham are all in the process of being vacated, closed or sold.