POLICE have issued a warning about a bogus letter which claims to name a child sex offender.

The letters purport to be from Essex Police and were sent to addresses in Leigh and Rayleigh yesterday.

They have been sent to local businesses and claim the man is listed on the sex offenders’ register.

They give his age, home address, and even a registration for his car.

Police issued a statement yesterday afternoon to make it clear the letters were a fabrication.

The victim said: “The police have been excellent. They really have supported us.

“The press release from the chief inspector was released straight away.”

Chief Inspector Glen Westley, district commander for Rochford, said: “We are aware a number of malicious letters have been sent out claiming to be from Essex Police. The letters name a man and state that he is a sex offender.

“I appeal to anyone who has received one of these letters to disregard the claims made.

“The claims are untrue and entirely malicious.

“I would ask anybody who receives a letter to contact us so we can collect the letters and use them as evidence.”

Anyone who has received a letter can contact police on 0300 3334444.