Community officers are expected to support regular police

There are 32 CSO's patrolling the county's streets, with more on the way.

The officers have been well received since their introduction six months ago but funding is being phased out over the next three years.

But the police say the officers are a valuable resource and will be kept on.

'Excellent value'

The CSOs do not have the same powers of arrest as regular officers, but provide a visible presence and deal with low level public disorder.

They are doing such a good job that I think they are probably going to be indispensable Peter Davis, Lincolnshire Assistant Chief Constable

While costs are currently being met in full by the Government, by 2006 that commitment will fall to 50%.

Any further costs may have to be met in full by council tax payers.

But Lincolnshire's Assistant Chief Constable Peter Davis has confirmed they will do everything they can to keep them and the officers are being kept informed.

He said: "They are aware of the uncertainty about the funding but they also know my view that they are doing such a good job that I think they are probably going to be indispensable.

"So, long term, I am very confident about the future.