YOUNGSTERS are being given the chance to beat their local bobbies at a series of rounders and cricket matches.

In a bid to keep children occupied and out of trouble this summer holiday, police community support officers covering the Pitsea south-east beat are hosting rounders and cricket games.

The events – taking place in Eversley Park, in Crest Avenue, and on the recreational ground in Wickford Avenue, both in Pitsea – will see police community support officers going head-to-head with children of all ages.

Sgt Andy Waldie, from Pitsea police, said: “Our police community support officers are hosting a series of rounders in the park events to get kids out and active during the summer holidays.

“They will not only get the chance to make the most of the good weather and play sport, but they will get to know their local bobbies during the process.

“We quite often get complaints about youngsters being a nuisance during the summer holidays and causing antisocial behaviour as they have nothing to do.

“But hopefully this will give them the opportunity to play with their friends while staying out of trouble and, who knows, they may even beat their local community officers during a game!”

The events are taking place on Tuesday, August 17, from 5pm to 7pm, at Eversley Park, Pitsea; Wednesday, August 18, from 5pm to 7pm meeting at the cage at Chevers Pawen off Wickford Avenue, Pitsea; and Tuesday, August 31, from 2pm to 4pm, also meeting at the cage in Chevers Pawen.

For more information, call the officers on their ward mobile, 07875 003290.