Totton police station has reopened to the public after being closed for a decade.

The station on Testwood Lane was reopened on Wednesday by police and crime commissioner Donna Jones and chief constable Scott Chilton.

It will now be open five days a week, from Tuesday to Saturday, 8am to 4pm. The station closed its doors to the public in 2014.

Ms Jones said: "I am delighted to have reopened Totton Police Station with the Chief Constable today after more than a decade of closure.

"Since becoming Police Commissioner, the public have unequivocally told me they want it to be easier to report crime, speak to their local police officer, and share information with the police. Today, this has become a reality.

"The Chief Constable and I have a shared vision – for Hampshire and Isle of Wight to be the safest counties in the country. Crime rates are falling, charge rates are increasing and I’m delighted to be able to open another police station for officers to work in, and alongside the community."

Mr Chilton said: "The reopening of Totton police station today is yet another substantial step in ensuring accessibility to first-class, visible policing in our local communities, who need to speak with, and have the support of, their local policing teams.

"Policing the New Forest is unique; the expansive geographical areas to complex rural surroundings – alongside the small towns and villages – the new front counter provision at Totton will provide the policing response that is required to ensure the safety of residents, businesses and those visiting the local area.

"As Chief Constable, I will continue to that ensure that we deliver exceptional local policing, and today’s opening in Totton demonstrates that."

Residents, business owners, and visitors will be able to visit the station to report a crime, share information with the local police, or seek advice.

Totton is the seventh police station opened or reopened by the police and crime commissioner this year.