Police bosses have launched the long-awaited joint firearms support unit for Beds and Herts.

This is the latest of a number of services which have been pooled between the two forces in recent years.

A joint chemical laboratory was unofficially unveiled last month, while in April three joint units were established - the Beds and Herts dog unit, professional standards department and scientific services unit. The Beds and Herts Major Crime Unit was launched in 2007.

Proposals for the joint firearms support unit were developed by the Beds and Herts Joint Collaboration Programme Team in consultation with staff, key stakeholders and staff associations across the two forces.

The plans were agreed by the two Police Authorities in May this year.

Detailed work has been undertaken by the two forces to align their firearms policies and procedures and to deliver relevant training, in readiness for the 'go live' date.

Martin Stuart, Deputy Chief Constable of Beds Police, said: "This new joint unit, along with the other collaborative initiatives already implemented, aims to bring about both greater operational effectiveness and productivity.

"Beds and Herts continue to lead the way with these collaborative ventures."