Durham Constabulary say they are facing a potential shortfall of �3m to �4m in the coming year.

Cleveland Police are concerned that the amount allocated by the government will not cover their increased costs.

Cumbria Constabulary warn without a 5.7% increase from the government, cuts in public service are a possibility.

The visit to Westminster is part of a national campaign to highlight the effects of a projected �350m shortfall in police finances next year.

'Frontline policing'

Chair of Durham Police Authority Anne Wright said: "Normally what happens [when there is a funding shortfall] is the police authorities would raise council tax to bridge the gap, but this year we are not allowed to do that."

Sean Price, Chief Constable of Cleveland Police, said: "We've got pensions rising by �3.5m next year, and pay increases of around another �3m.

"Plus we are going to be asked to make 3% efficiency savings next year, and we have got all of the cost of living rises which are due to take place.

"Yet we expect that the increase in grant that we are going to get to pay for this, which is decided by the government, is only going to be about �2.5 or �3m."