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British Transport Police has reduced senior ranks by 20% to help boost front line policing.

Twenty one officers of Chief Inspector, Superintendent and Chief Superintendent rank have taken voluntary severance under a scheme designed to save ^9m over the next five years.

Chief Constable Andy Trotter said: "I am determined to protect our front line service from budget cuts. I want more officers out there, particularly late at night, to tackle crime, anti-social behaviour and to provide a visible reassurance to the public.

^I have taken swift action to reduce back office costs and senior ranks. This has been a quick and cost effective way of reducing salary costs, which safeguards money that will help increase the visibility and availability of front line officers and staff.^

Ensuring BTP has the leadership and resilience to improve its service following the departure of these experienced officers is a key management task for 2011/12.