DRUGS are as “easy to buy as a packet of crisps” in Lawford and Manningtree, it has been claimed.

The revelation came at the latest Lawford Parish Council meeting when councillors quizzed Tendring district commander, Chief Insp Russ Cole.

Residents’ concerns about the lack of police presence in Lawford, Manningtree and Mistley, an increase in crime and drivers flouting speed limits were all raised.

Council chairman David Ashley, said: “We highlighted the frustration of local people with the rise in domestic burglary, the ripple effect of crime, and the seeming lack of interest displayed by operators of 101 and police.

“Some examples given from parishioners include being asked to go and buy back their stolen goods when seen advertised locally and being suggested to not report a crime as it would not be solved and would affect crime figures.”

Another concern was how easy local children said they can get drugs.

Mr Ashley said one teenage described it as being “as easy as buying a packet of crisps”.

He said: “The chief inspector provided the meeting with many statistics for the district, the most notable ones being that crime in the Tendring area is up by 14per cent.

“He outlined that although crimes in Lawford, Manningtree and Mistley are up, these are not by as much as some areas in the district.

“The chief inspector stated that the 101 service just simply does not seem to be working.

“He recommended that all crimes be reported, but by using the online reporting service rather than calling 101.

“The chief inspector confirmed there is a massive drugs issue in Tendring and the force cannot arrest its way out of the drugs problem in the area – education and prevention are required.

“Plain clothed patrols are operational across the area and there are plans for additional ANPR cameras to identify known suppliers travelling to the area.”

A meeting is set to be held between Lawford and Mistley parish councils and Manningtree Town Council to discuss funding a PCSO for the area after assurances the officer would be kept in the area.