Community stalwart Tina Townsend has been recognised for her outstanding work organising the Witham neighbourhood watch over the past three years.

She was presented with a certificate last Tuesday from Clive Stewart, chairman of the Essex County Neighbourhood Watch Association.

It praised her efforts in coordinating the Watch as well as her founding of a Facebook page that has attracted over 3,500 members.

Mr Stewart described the latter as “a tremendous effort to raise the profile of Neighbourhood Watch and reduce the opportunity for crime in Witham.”

Townsend, who also chairs the Witham Chamber of Commerce, said she was proud of the community’s engagement in the scheme.

In a Facebook post, she said: “It’s been hard work but I’m proud of what I have achieved and how it has contributed to the town.

“It’s humbling to be recognised for the work you do as a volunteer, often behind the scenes, but always there for support.”