A NEW video has been released showing the work of the marine police unit based in the Maldon district.

The short film showcases the marine crime-fighting team based at Burnham-on-Crouch, which includes six police officers, two special constables and a number of boats, including the 42ft launch Alert IV and Sentinel, a 24ft rigid inflatable boat or RIB. Alert IV is 25 years old and is the unit's longest-serving police vehicle. All the vessels fly a blue ensign flag.

The officers cover a 'patch' of 365 miles of coastline and carry out high-visibility patrols along the entire length.

The marine unit launched in 1949 with the purchase of its first vessel, Vigilant, a wooden launch with a cabin and a radio. In those days, the team only patrolled the River Thames.

Today, officers use high-speed RIBs, capable of 50 knots, and small, inflatable dinghies. And they no longer rely solely on paper charts for navigation – they now have marine chart plotters, radar capability and night vision equipment.

In good conditions, the team can reach any part of the Essex coastline in an hour.

The video has been created as part of Essex 2020, a year-long, countywide celebration that highlights the county's enterprising past while inspiring a future for science and creativity.

Essex Police is currently recruiting police officers, special constables and detectives at Essex Police. To find out more visit the Essex Police website