BASILDON MP Stephen Metcalfe has praised the efforts of police officers in his constituency and urged residetns to subcribed to a newsletter from the Essex force.

The MP for South Basildon & East Thurrock recently visited Grays Police Station where he met with divisional commander with Chief Inspector Tony Atkin to discuss policing matters in his constituency, as well as learn about how the force is keeping in touch with residents via local e-newsletters.

Topics for discussion also included recent operations and trends in crime.

One particular focus of Essex Police, at this moment, is car crime which has recently risen.

CI Atkin briefed Mr Metcalfe on how officers were carrying out extensive operations, while also increasing patrols, in recognition that this was a major concern for local residents.

The Chief Inspector also discussed Essex Police's weekly e-newsletter, 'Dispatch', which he encouraged residents to sign up to. The e-newsletter has separate local editions for Basildon and Thurrock which can be found here: www.essex.police.uk/dispatch

The Dispatch e-newsletter is sent every Wednesday, focussing on community policing, crime prevention and upcoming events.

Mr Metcalfe said: "Many thanks to Essex Police who are working very hard to solve crime and make our communities safer places to live.

"I had a very informative discussion with CI Atkin and I would encourage residents to sign up to their local e-newsletter if they want to stay up-to-date with local policing."