POLICE will be using Manningtree fire station as a drop-in base after residents appealed for action to tackle rising crime.

Tendring community policing team’s Inspector Darren Deex has revealed a new partnership with the town’s fire station, which will mean police officers are able to use the building as a base as and when they are in the area.

He said: “It will be for local police officers and community neighbourhood team officers to be able to use the fire station as a drop-in base.

“It will give us somewhere to operate from within the local community of Manningtree, Mistley and Lawford.

“It will help increase the visibility of police there.

“I think its a really positive thing.”

The move comes after calls for two police officers to be permanently based at the station by Manningtree Sailing Club after a number of crimes and criminal damage.

Last Thursday, members of the club and Manningtree Town Council met with Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner for Essex, Jane Gardner to discuss ongoing concerns.

She said: “It was really helpful to meet with the residents who are clearly committed to keeping community safety at the forefront of everyone’s minds.

“I have been given some food for thought and will exploring the practicalities of some of the suggestions.”

Manningtree town councillor Michelle Taylor, a retired police officer, welcomed the drop-in base and called for residents to volunteer as special police.

She said: “It’s a fabulous start to just have a police presence, even if it’s just a drop-in at this stage.

“We are looking forward to working with Inspector Deex, his team and the police and crime commissioner as we move forward.

“I suggested looking to recruit specials as Essex Police is having a big recruiting drive at the moment.

“As things stand currently, it is a brilliant way forward.

“It would be local people with local knowledge supporting their local community.”

For more information about becoming a special police officer visit essex.police.uk/join-the-police/