'Safer' Pava to replace CS spray

Police are to replace CS spray with a substance they claim is safer and more effective when restraining suspects.

A version of a pepper spray already carried by officers in 22 other forces will be phased in from April for use by Cambridgeshire Police.

Pava (pelargonic acid vanillylamide) is less likely to contaminate officers or bystanders, a spokesman said.

"It could reduce the need for officers in close encounters to use batons which could result in injury," he said.

Any effects can be treated by washing eyes with cold water.

Officers will be trained to use Pava spray before being issued with it.

Assistant Chief Constable Mark Hopkins said: "This is the most up-to-date spray of its kind.

"It will be much more effective in the restraint of violent or unruly offenders and safer for officers and members of the public."