LANCASHIRE’S most senior police officers have again turned down their annual bonuses.

The decision comes as the force faces £42million cuts over the next four years, with an estimated 800 job losses which includes 500 officers.

Under the chief officers’ bonus scheme, senior bosses are entitled to up to 15 per cent of their salary as a bonus.

The decision to turn down the offer for a second year means Chief Constable Steve Finnigan has rejected the chance for an extra £21,000 on top of his £140,000-plus wage.

In addition, Deputy Chief Constable Chris Weigh and Assistant Chief Constables Wendy Walker, Andy Cooke and Andy Rhodes also rejected the bonus offer.

These individuals are on £100,000-plus and would have been entitled to between 10 and 15 per cent bonuses.

Chair of the Police Authority Coun Malcolm Doherty said: “Members formally accepted the officers' decision and agreed not to award bonus payments.

“The constabulary has continued to deliver exceptional performance and improvements in service, even in these testing times, when the financial challenge is leading to major structural changes and budget reductions across the force.

“This highlights the strength of leadership of the Chief Officer Team and it is a laudable decision, setting an example to others, which should be acknowledged.

“We have previously made it clear that, alongside many senior officers, the Police Authority does not agree with the bonus scheme in principle. However, the scheme is still operating as part of the current Police Negotiating Board (PNB) terms and conditions. ”