FRONT counter services at a Ramsbottom police station are set to be dropped, it has emerged.

Plans to shut the response desk at Ramsbottom’s Bridge Street station have been confirmed by Greater Manchester Police.

Chief Supt Jon Rush, Bury divisional commander, said: “This will mean no longer operating a front counter facility at Ramsbottom, Radcliffe and Prestwich.

“We will utilise Bury as the main enquiry counter with other facilities at Whitefield.

“However I want to reassure people that this does not mean the closure of the other stations as police officers and PCSOs will still be based there.

“It just means that a front counter facility will no longer happen.”

The Greater Manchester force is looking to save £33million this year alone - which will mean the loss of 270 police officer posts and 616 civilian staff.

Neighbouring Lancashire constabulary is already looking at closing counter services at Great Harwood, Darwen, Longridge, Barnoldswick, Brierfield and Padiham.