The MP for Maldon met with a member of Essex Police earlier this month (Friday 15 October) to discuss and raise concerns about local policing issues.

John Whittingdale met with Chief Superintendent Tom Simons, the Essex north local policing area commander, to discuss crime in the Maldon district and Essex.

Mr Whittingdale said: "I am pleased that the recruitment of more officers will strengthen local response teams and in particular focussing on violence against women and girls.

"Maldon and Chelmsford are fortunate that crime levels remain low but there has been a worrying increase in violence, much of it related to drugs.

"However, there has been a welcome drop in robbery and burglary."

An increase in funding has allowed Essex Police to recruit 184 more police officers, bringing the size of the force to 3,553 people.

This is an overall growth of 703 police offices since May 2016 and the biggest investment in Essex Police in a decade.

Mr Whittingdale, however, raised concerns about the Maldon team not having a base in the district and having to work out of the civic offices in Chelmsford.

He said: "It is also good news that the Community Policing Teams covering the Maldon District and South Woodham Ferrers are providing a visible police presence, although I am disappointed that the Maldon team still has to be based in Chelmsford.

"I will be raising with the Essex Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner the need for more space at the district council offices to allow the community policing team to be based there."