The changes to the structure of the force are designed to improve the level of service to residents and visitors to the county.

Insp Lewis said: "This merger will benefit local communities in many ways. It will allow the force to concentrate more on important issues such as dealing with domestic abuse, the management of dangerous persons and the fight against terrorism.

"The local Safer Neighbourhood teams will receive additional resources as well. I will work hard with my colleagues, partners and local people to keep crime in the area at its current low levels."

The Buxton police area which covers the town centre, Harpur Hill, Fairfield and many outlying areas, has been merged with Chapel-en-le-Frith, Whaley Bridge, Dove Holes and other smaller villages such as Chinley and Buxworth.

Glossop policing area has been merged with New Mills and is now known as North Section. Ashbourne, Bakewell and Matlock have merged to form South Section.

The enlarged "Central Section" of Buxton and Chapel-en-le-Frith will retain all of its existing Safer Neighbourhood teams officers as well as response officers who will report for duty at both Buxton and Chapel police stations as before.

Frontline staffing will remain the same and no police stations will close as a result of the changes.