Five years after being closed, Lydney Police Station has reopened for duty.

The High Street station was shut in 2015 but has opened its doors again to its first officers.

It will be fully operational in a few weeks as a base for 20 officers and two sergeants.

Announcing the reopening last month, Police & Crime Commissioner for Gloucestershire Martin Surl said neighbourhood policing would be a priority, highlighting drop-in spaces on the ground floor as a way to help build relationships with the community.

Mr Surl said: "I have been determined to keep a physical police presence in each of the county's six districts, not only so that officers can operate from local bases and respond quickly to emergencies, but also to make the police more accessible and accountable.

"Improving communications between the police and the public has always been one of my priorities."

The station was closed as part of cost-saving measures following cuts to the forces's funding.

Operational resources for the area over the past five years have been directed from Coleford with attempts to lease out the building proving unsuccessful.