A Norfolk MP said it was vital the newly elected police and crime commissioner for Norfolk enabled the force to carry on its good performance in fighting crime.

With less than two weeks to go until the police and crime commissioner elections, Mid Norfolk MP, George Freeman met police chiefs at Wymondham headquarters, which is in his constituency.

He said: 'The election of police and crime commissioners is an important opportunity to highlight the excellent and ground breaking work that Norfolk police are doing in effectively targeting resources to prevent and tackle crime, and drive efficiencies in the back-office functions which are essential to protecting front line officers on the beat. Although one of the smallest constabularies in the country, Norfolk punches well above its weight, and is ranked one of the best forces in the country on a number of key criteria. This is the result of strong leadership, a commitment to modernise and innovate working practices, and good joint working in the new partnership with Suffolk, which has already saved over �20m –money which can now be spent on the front line.'

Norfolk's candidates are: Steve Morphew (Labour), Jamie Athill (Conservative), James Joyce (Lib Dem), Stephen Bett (Independent) and Matthew Smith (UKIP).

Elections take place on November 15.