THE police presence in a rural town is to be greatly increased as part of a scheme to give residents more peace of mind.

Kirkbymoorside police station is on the verge of being shut down to allow officers to move into a £250,000 community resource centre.

North Yorkshire Police chiefs believe the switch from the premises on the outskirts of Kirkbymoorside to the town centre would result in a drop in crime - as well as helping to cut costs.

Chief Constable David Kenworthy said the intention was to rent the top floor of the rural enterprise advice centre for a three-year period at a cost of £10,500.

"Relocating the police station would provide for greater public accessibility, including disabled access, and an increased visible presence in the town, resulting in a range of services being provided from a central location in partnership with other agencies - in effect, a 'one-stop shop'," he said.

The sale of the existing station could fetch about £45,000 and the force would make savings on annual running costs as it would be sharing the new premises with other agencies, including Ryedale District Council and the Citizens' Advice Bureau.

Seregeant Cliff Edens, local area commander for Kirkbymoorside and Helmsley, said: "The whole ethos of taking the police to the public is, in my opinion, a great way forward and will have the effect of reducing the fear of crime.

"The town centre can be a disruptive place on a Friday and Saturday night and history shows that people are less likely to cause disturbances near police stations."

There would be no change in police numbers, with two officers being supervised by Sgt Edens, but there is scope for improving the facilities.

A centre manager is also due to be appointed and would be available to carry out some administrative duties for the police.

The matter will be considered by North Yorkshire Police Authority when it meets in Northallerton on Monday.