Crime in the east of the borough is the target of an operation that will see a surge in policing across Mitcham and Colliers Wood.

Additional resources have been earmarked for five wards with safer neighbourhood teams from elsewhere in Merton drafted in to provide an increased physical presence over the summer.

Senior officers will be on the beat, with up to 45 additional police providing street-level intelligence to tackle burglary and antisocial behaviour.

The move comes as Merton police plan to shave 11 per cent off its annual expenditure.

Borough commander Chief Superintendent Dick Wolfenden said: "A lot of this has to do with the economy. We need to be much smarter with the resources we have.

"It’s imperative we show we use our resources or risk losing them, and we’re all having to work harder and smarter.

"I expect senior officers to give their time and people will notice police with a bit more silver on their shoulder than usual.

"We’ve all got a part to play and we’re part of the team. This is about setting an example and showing good leadership."

Police forces across London are expected to see their funding slashed by up to 25 per cent over the next four years but Chief Supt Wolfenden said maintaining frontline policing was his highest priority.

Efficiency savings and a reduction in overtime pay has helped Merton police cut costs.

Plans to merge back-room staff with Sutton police are also being considered.