After celebrating Essex Pride this weekend, Essex police has come out with a message continuing to appeal for victims of hate crime to report it to them.

The force's LGBTQ+ Network were joined by Chief Constable Ben-Julian Harrington and Hate Crime Officers in Chelmsford's Central Park on Saturday (21 August).

CC Harrington said: "After a really tough year for lots of people, it was great to join my team and people across Essex to celebrate Pride.

"At the last Essex Pride, my conversations with the local community were really productive – if difficult to hear at times – and I'm pleased that these crucial conversations have continued to help shape the way we protect and serve communities in Essex.

"Pride events are a time for celebration, but it can also be a time where we see hate crime rise. It's unacceptable that people are targeted for being who they are and who they love. My officers are going keep working hard to make sure victims feel comfortable reporting these crimes to us, and that they get the justice they deserve.

"If you're a victim of hate crime, please report it to us. You can submit a report on our website, or go to one of the Hate Incident Reporting centres across the county if you don't want to speak to us straight away. Always call 999 in an emergency.

"We work closely with invaluable community groups and charities, like Transpire in Southend and Outhouse East in Colchester, and they can offer additional support if you need it.

"I'd like to wish everyone who was celebrating over the weekend – and who is celebrating at upcoming events – a happy and safe Pride. We're here if you need us."