Open-neck shirts are out as police switch back to traditional collars and ties.

From January 1, the casual look will be banned by Sussex Police in favour of the "smarter" closed-neck shirt.

In recent years, officers have been allowed to wear either but the force is standardising uniforms.

And the move will save money.

A spokesman said: "Strange as it may seem, closed-neck shirts are cheaper, although we don't really know why."

A national policy which insisted on closed-neck shirts was adopted by forces two years ago and has been phased in gradually.

Force stocks of open-neck shirts have been run down and closed-neck shirts increased.

The spokesman said: "It was decided to standardise shirts and the closed-neck was considered smarter."

Not everyone agrees.

One officer told The Argus: "I much prefer the open-necked style. It is much more comfortable and it is less formal when you are speaking to members of the public."

But one civilian staff member said: "I think the collar and tie is much smarter but I don't see why officers who work behind desks and are not in face-to-face contact with the public have to wear ties.

"It seems silly in this day and age."

So what will become of the hundreds of open-neck shirts about to be handed in?

The spokesman said: "Nothing goes to waste.

"We have a recycling policy and we will be giving all the shirts to charity shops to sell.

"That's what we do with all clothing which has been used but is still in good condition - even policemen's trousers."