Devon and Cornwall Constabulary will start using new equipment to help incapacitate violent people.

The Captor spray is replacing CS spray and works more effectively and quickly in subduing targets and avoiding cross-contamination.

The spray could be used when police attend incidents where there is a serious risk to the public and themselves.

The Captor spray forces the closure of a person's eyes, with the effects lasting up to 40 minutes. Independent tests have shown that Captor spray is safe and has no lasting ill-health effects.

Superintendent Richard Baker, of the Operations Department, said: "Violent crime in the Force area has bucked the national trend and is falling, but it is vital that when these incidents do occur that police have the means to deal with them effectively and safely.

"The new Captor spray is very effective at incapacitating violent people and stops them from being aggressive, assaulting people or fleeing incidents.

"There have been stringent national tests to ensure that there are no health risks to those using Captor spray or being targeted by it.

"All of our officers have received training in using the Captor spray and it will only be drawn in situations where there is violent or threatening behaviour."