NORFOLK police has paid out �27,000 less in controversial top brass bonuses compared to last year as the force looks to make financial savings.Last year chief officers were paid �33,000 in performance-related bonuses, paid to chief constables across the country.

NORFOLK police has paid out �27,000 less in controversial top brass bonuses compared to last year as the force looks to make financial savings.

Last year chief officers were paid �33,000 in performance-related bonuses, paid to chief constables across the country.

The scheme has attracted criticism by those who say they encourage target chasing.

Norfolk Police Authority's senior officers appointment panel has decided on this year's bonuses.

In its report, it says “Despite continuing excellent overall performance by all, and mindful of the economic circumstances, the panel was predisposed to nil awards. Despite that, limited exceptions were agreed.”

A total of �6,054 will be paid out to Association of Chief Police Officer ranked individuals.

The force does not comment on which officers receive how much. They are shared between the chief constable, deputy chief constable and assistant chief constables.

In the past the force has attracted criticism for spending almost �100,000 to lure its two top officers to the county. Former chief constable Ian McPherson, now an assistant commissioner at the Metropolitan Police, was paid �70,000 in relocation costs including stamp duty while deputy chief constable Ian Learmonth, who left recently to become chief constable of Kent Police, was paid between �19,000 and �28,999.

It is understand current chief constable Phil Gormley will receive a similar package. He is in the process of buying a house in the county, so his relocation package has not yet been decided.