THE re-opening of Brentford Police Station on Monday saw locals come together to celebrate the culmination of years of community campaigning.

Senior police officers welcomed councillors and community leaders to the ceremony that opened the station's doors to the public after four years of closure.

The station, on Half Acre, closed in 2000, although police officers still worked from the building. However, local residents were not pleased that they had to travel to Hounslow or Chiswick to report a crime and action groups began campaigning to re-open the station's front desk.

An officer will now be available from 9am to 5pm. These hours may change to allow later visitors, should there be demand for an extended service.

Speaking at the ceremony Lord Toby Harris, chair of the Police Authority, said: "This is obviously very important in that it has been possible after many years to reopen the centre. This is part of the Met's strategy on focusing on improving access to local services and finding ways of making it easier for the public to contact their local police."

There are now four police stations open across the borough, and it is hoped that the re-opening of the Brentford station will help the area's rejuvenation.

Local inspector Lindsey Hannigan, the officer in charge of Brentford, said: "I am delighted at the prospect of Brentford police station re-opening. We are looking forward to the station re-establishing itself as a focal point for the residents and local businesses."

The station will now operate a front desk facility where residents can report minor crimes and assist officers by passing on important information.

Labour MP Ann Keen added: "It's excellent news for the community. We have campaigned for the last five years."

Further improvements will include a custody office containing several cells, allowing criminals to be detained within the station.