COMMUNITY volunteers will be stationed in supermarkets across Canvey in a bid to keep residents safe in the run up to Christmas.

A team of active citizens are giving up their spare time over the festive season to help spread the police message and offer safety advice.

It is hoped by speaking to residents during regular “beat surgeries”, the initiative will drive down crime and antisocial behaviour on the island.

Since the initiative was launched last month, a surgery has been carried out by residents Kevin Perryer and Robert Baillie (pictured).

Sgt Mark McQuade, from the Castle Point community policing team, said that shoppers can expect to see the volunteers regularly throughout December.

He said: “These people are very valuable volunteers within the community who assist the police in reducing crime and antisocial behaviour and being another contact with members of the public.

“They are assisting us by delivering leaflets in the town centre and shopping areas around crime and how people can understand crime.

“We are branching out more and more with what the active citizens are prepared to do.”

Residents with concerns are able to speak to the active citizens, who will relay messages to the police.

At the surgeries, residents can pick up property marking kits, purse bells, bag cables, personal alarms and other crime prevention materials to make sure they stay safe while they are out and about in the town.

Mr McQuade said that one of the main ways that residents can reduce crime is by ensuring their homes are as secure as possible.

He said: “In the lead up to Christmas, people need to be aware there are opportunistic thieves and burglars about - do not make it easy for them.

“Make sure you double lock your doors, by lifting your door handle and turning the key, and make sure all alarms and CCTV cameras are working properly.”

If you or anyone you know is interested in becoming an active email active.citizen@essex.pnn.police.uk or visit www.essex.police.uk/join-the-police/volunteers/active-citizens.

Anyone with information about crime on Canvey can call Essex Police on 101.