The Channel 4 series "To Catch a Copper" has led to a call from Avon and Somerset's own scrutiny panel. The panel, which includes volunteers drawn from members of the public, says that police investigations and discipline need a radical overhaul to avoid further damage to public trust.

In a statement, ISOPP said: "The documentary laid bare how the Professional Standards Department and even the IOPC (Independent Office for Police Conduct) operate within systems and processes that result in decisions that protect the police rather than the public. 

"This has serious implications for policing by consent which is the basic foundation of British policing."

Benet Allen, the Liberal Democrat candidate for Commissioner in May's elections, said "It was a brave move by the Chief Constable to allow the cameras in - one that was resented by many officers - but the light has reached some dark corners in Avon & Somerset Police, and demonstrated how much the anti-corruption and disciplinary processes have become internalised. 

"The police's own panel has reinforced this gloomy picture. It's time for change in the police."

Meantime in case you missed it, Labour's candidate for the Avon and Somerset PCC has vowed to increase neighbourhood police and PSCOs by 13,000 nationally, You can read about that pledge HERE