More than 100 officers refused to have pictures put on the website

Officers said pictures posted on the internet had been used to make "wanted" posters and they and their families had suffered abuse.

The Police Federation prepared legal action to stop the publications, but now the dispute has been resolved.

Existing neighbourhood officers will not have to have a photo published.

'Changing needs'

The website is also being changed so there are now group photographs rather than individual pictures.

The idea of having the photos was to improve the force's Neighbourhood Beat Managers' profiles. Each was told they must have a photograph on the force's website.

Devon and Cornwall Police said the move was because its "policing style meets the changing needs of local communities". But more than 100 officers refused.

In a highly unusual move, the Police Federation began legal action to stop the photos being published.

Assistant Chief Constable Tony Melville said: "I've listened very carefully and I've worked with the Federation and I've been out and met with officers face-to-face.

"I fully understand their concerns, and it's through that understanding that we've reached this resolution."

Steve Pierce of the Police Federation said: "The majority of officers were extremely concerned. But now they have had the chance to talk and be told the way forward, they are very happy with the decision made and the way it's going to go."

However, new staff who are taken on as neighbourhood officers will be expected to have their photos published.