A RETIRED high-ranking cop living in Exmouth has spoken out about Devon and Cornwall police's proposal to force senior officers to retire after 30 years – instead of allowing them to continue working

A RETIRED high-ranking cop living in Exmouth has spoken out about Devon and Cornwall police's proposal to force senior officers to retire after 30 years - instead of allowing them to continue working

Retired superintendent Ian McKenzie said the move would affect new recruits if it came into play.

His concerns have been echoed by scores of critics who believe the force risks losing its most experienced officers if the move goes ahead.

Devon and Cornwall police has to save more than �14million over three years - it expects cutting 180 officers would help achieve the savings.

Mr McKenzie said: "The fresh people who come in are people with limited experience, or perhaps even none at all.

"In that case, what is lost is very substantial indeed. What is gained is only money."

Chief constable Stephen Otter said the idea was one being mooted in a bid to save cash.