POLICE have deployed further patrols to areas of Halstead in a bid to tackle a rise in anti-social behaviour.

Officers with Essex Police have been patrolling Halstead’s public gardens in recent weeks.

Reports and complaints from residents prompted a response from Essex Police to increase the number of patrols.

Now patrols have extended to the town’s Kings Park area.

Officers could be seen patrolling the public gardens and Kings Park last Tuesday.

It comes as readers recently voiced their frustration with the police presence in the town during a Gazette poll.

In the three polls, which saw a total of 175 votes cast, 87 per cent said they’d noticed a rise in anti-social behaviour in the town.

A total of 92 per cent said they were concerned about anti-social behaviour being on the rise while 97 per cent said authorities need to be doing more to combat any rise in anti-social behaviour.

The opinions of readers were also voiced online with many criticising the lack of police in the town and the closure of the town’s police station.

An Essex Police spokesman said: “In the gaps between the wind and rain yesterday, Officers were out on foot patrol in Halstead.

“They were patrolling around public gardens and Kings Park following concerns raised by residents about anti-social behaviour

“We are continuing to work with Braintree District Council to identify those responsible

“If you have information that might assist please email Braintree.District.CPT@essex.police.uk.”