Oxford University has cut paying for its four Police Community Support Officers to patrol around the dreaming spires.

The university has confirmed officers were no longer on the beat around the city’s 38 colleges and private halls following “a more constrained funding environment”, a decision which has disappointed police.

The PCSOs first took up their posts in April 2008, based at the Bodleian Library, and were the university’s first police officers in its 900-year history.

The team was half-funded by the university to the tune of £120,000 over two years. The other £120,000 was met by Thames Valley Police Authority.

The officers collected information and intelligence for police officers and patrolled the university’s grounds and properties. They also policed high-profile visits.

All four officers have now been re-deployed to other neighbourhoods.

This week, Daniel Lowe, vice president of charities and community at Oxford University Students Union, said: “Given the non-campus nature of the university, I do not have any significant worry that the loss of a university specific team will make the university less safe.

“However, the residents of Oxford in general may see the effect of less visible policing patrols.

“Crime levels within the university were low during the time they were in post.”

He added: “A survey conducted in the spring showed that students feel unsafe at night in certain parts of the city.

“However, before any lobbying campaigns begin it will be necessary to ascertain if crime levels rise or students feel less safe without the Pcsos or indeed if Pcsos are the most effective tool for better community policing in Oxford.”

Oxfordshire Police Commander Chief Supt Brendan O’Dowda said: “I am disappointed that funding was withdrawn, but not surprised given the very challenging economic outlook.

“We are committed to working together in this difficult area to provide a joint approach to providing ongoing reassurance, protection and crime reduction.

“Thames Valley Police is also committed to the thorough investigation of any threat made by the animal rights movement against any business or individual.”

Supt Amanda Pearson, local police area commander for Oxford, said: “Whilst we are disappointed with Oxford University’s decision, we will of course continue to work with them to ensure Oxford is a safe place for students to live and study in.”

Oxford University spokesman Matt Pickles said: “Due to a more constrained funding environment, the university has not been able to renew its funding of PCSOs this year.

“The university continues to work closely with the Thames Valley Police.”