MEMBERS of the public can have their say on policing in Braintree during a special meeting.

Essex Police will be holding a focus group at the council offices in Bocking End to allow residents to voice any concerns.

The force says it is hosting the meeting in response to a recent online survey which showed 83 per cent of residents in Braintree wanted to know what Essex Police is doing about crime in the area.

A similar number also said they wanted to engage with officers but were unsure how to do this.

District Commander for Braintree & Uttlesford, Chief Inspector Janette Rawlingson, will be at the meeting at Causeway House, which takes place on Tuesday, August 6.

She said: "We are grateful for the feedback received from the online survey and welcome the opportunity to meet with local people to hear their views and opinions at our focus groups.

"We are wholeheartedly committed to public engagement, and the focus groups are a great opportunity for us to hear more about what is going on in local communities. We invite people from all age groups and communities to come along and get involved."

The event, which starts at 6pm, will also offer those attending the opportunity to discuss suggestions and ideas in small, focused groups.

Places are limited so to register your interest or for more information, email public.engagement@essex.pnn.police.uk.