Plans to reduce street lighting in West Berkshire have been criticised by the Police and Crime Commissioner for Thames Valley.

Matthew Barber raised concerns over potential risks to safety and public confidence.

The plans, part of the council's budget consultation, would see most areas in the district without street lighting after midnight.

In the letter, Mr Barber said: "Thames Valley Police has been leading the way nationally in the work to protect women, particularly in the night time economy, with operations such as Project Vigilant.

"The unilateral dimming or switching off of street lighting may jeopardise not just the confidence that has been built up, but also the safety of women in our district."

He also noted the potential impact on crime rates, which have been on a downward trend across West Berkshire.

"There has been excellent work by the police both through enforcement and prevention to tackle knife crime in the district.

"Knife enabled crime has continued to fall in West Berkshire over the last year, and we have secured additional Home Office funding to aid the fight against anti-social behaviour in Newbury.

"Creating an environment where people feel less safe at night risks putting some of those achievements into reverse."

Mr Barber pointed out that anti-social behaviour is one of the biggest concerns from the public.

"There are many examples where improved lighting has been found to deter or reduce anti-social behaviour.

"At a time when I have asked the Chief Constable to increase neighbourhood policing resources to help tackle such concerns, it cannot be helpful to reduce street lighting across the district."

The full letter from Mr Barber to West Berkshire Council leader, Jeff Brooks, can be found on the Thames Valley Police website.