A new team has been set up to focus on reducing crime and antisocial behaviour in rural communities across south Essex.

The Essex Police Gypsy, Traveller and Rural Engagement Team started work earlier this year linking up with rural communities, providing extra patrols in rural areas and giving crime prevention advice.

The five officers in the team work with partner agencies to tackle issues such as unauthorised traveller encampments, hare coursing and flytipping.

They also act as a link between rural communities and local policing teams, providing them with a point of contact. If you want to report a crime or see anything suspicious you can contact them on 101 or report it online at essex.police.uk/do-it-online/ or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.