A man has been arrested as part of an Essex Police investigation into allegations of financial crime and the safeguarding of children at Maldon Carnival. 

An Essex Police spokesperson confirmed the investigation is in its early stages and a man has been released on bail. 

Nub News understands there have been two separate allegations made regarding the safeguarding of children, along with allegations of fraud. A source told Nub News that members of the previous carnival committee have been questioned by police as part of the investigation. 

It is also understood a false email address was allegedly given to somebody who raised concerns over safeguarding issues at the carnival. 

Last week, the new Maldon Carnival Committee held a meeting, the first since this year's Carnival procession was cancelled "due to a lack of funding and volunteers". 

Among Carnival assets discussed at the meeting was a bank account containing £11,134, Gift Aid relief totalling £813.74, and a property in Mill Road, Maldon, valued at £105,000. 

Maldon Town Council has issued a statement following the arrest, saying Maldon Carnival Limited is a "separate stand-alone entity".

A spokesperson said: "The Town Council does not hold a position on the board.

"The Town Mayor of Maldon holds the ceremonial position of President of the Carnival during their term in office.

"Maldon Town Council is fully co-operating with the authorities on this matter."

The police investigation is ongoing.

More to follow. 

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