ESSEX Police are introducing a 24-hour intelligence support bureau as part of an overhaul of intelligence services.

The bureau, opening in October, will help officers plan operations more effectively and will also act as a point of contact for other forces.

Project manager Insp Kevan Griggs said: "The team has been set up with the aim of making Essex Police the recognised leader in using intelligence to drive high performance. These changes will ensure that up-to-the-minute intelligence is available to front-line staff."

Working from head office in Chelmsford, bureau officers will check all intelligence and pass on relevant information.