Maldon MP Sir John Whittingdale met with Chief Superintendent Stuart Weaver, North Essex Divisions Commander, to discuss policing issues last Friday (July 28).

Sir John said: "I am delighted that following the recruitment of 900 officers, Essex Police now has 3,750 officers and is now the largest it has been in its 182-year history."

He says the "significant rise" in officers has enabled the community policing teams in the area covering Maldon, Southminster and South Woodham Ferrers to "get up to full strength".

"Crime rates are down with significant falls in both serious violence as well as burglaries and antisocial behaviour," Sir John added.

"It is also encouraging to see a reduction in domestic abuse, which is one of the largest categories of crime."

It was stated that the local area is one of the safest parts of our county to live in, although there are still some policing challenges in remote rural areas like the Dengie Peninsula.

Sir John Whittingdale added "I would like to thank Essex Police for the magnificent job they do in keeping us safe and I will continue to give them every support".

The Maldon MP also thanked Essex Police "for the magnificent job they do in keeping us safe" and pledged to give the force "every support".

In April, Sir John was temporarily re-appointed Minister of State at the Department for Culture, Media and Sport, while Julia Lopez is on maternity leave.

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