Officers receiving reports of stalking or harassment in Bedfordshire will no longer send written warnings to those accused before opening investigations.

Police information notices, or PINs, took the form of a letter sent by police to alleged perpetrators, warning that police action would follow if such behaviour continued.

But the notices have now been deemed ineffective, and the force says that removing them will mean “more considered and comprehensive investigations”, with better managing of risk to victims.

The force’s tactical lead for stalking and harassment, DCI John Murphy, said: “The removal of PINs means our response to stalking and harassment cases will be in line with other offences, adding further protection to victims.

“Victims of stalking and harassment can feel very isolated. They are not ‘one-off’ crimes and the repeated, unwanted behaviour causes alarm or distress.

“A series of incidents taken in isolation can appear trivial – but put them together and they become far more sinister.

“It is important victims have the confidence to come forward and report this behaviour. You will be listened to.”

If you are being stalked or harassed, call police on 101. Always call 999 in an emergency.

You can also seek support from the National Stalking Helpline on 0808 8020300 and the national stalking advocacy service Paladin on 020 3866 4107 or paladinservice.co.uk.