CASH-strapped police forces should not cut spending on sport, according to Lancashire’s Chief Constable.

Steve Finnigan said encouraging officers and staff to play sport reduced stress, improved mental health and increased performance.

Mr Finnigan, Lancashire’s most senior officer, is also chairman of Police Sport UK, an organisation which promotes inter-force events in 31 disciplines.

He played football for the police during the 1980s and said the benefits for Lancashire’s bobbies are more than just being able to catch criminals on foot.

He told Jane’s Police Review magazine: “Finance is a concern.

We are talking about the public purse here and I do understand that.

“So I do understand that there might be a temptation to cut back on this.

"I have urged chief constables to take a balanced view on this – to be sympathetic.”

Funding for sports comes in part from the force, but mostly through fees and players’ pockets.