COPS have been out in force patrolling an estate hit by a wave of car crime.

Just last week, it was reported residents on the Five Links estate, in Laindon, were at the end of their tether after cars were broken into and two cars were torched by vandals.

A Nissan in Mellow Purgess was left completely gutted after being set fire to at the end of April. More recently, on May 9, a Vauxhall in Somercotes was set alight.

Residents Jackie and Brian Falconer of Mellow Purgess, blamed the hike in car crime on a lack of security at a car park in their road.

In response to concerns, police have been beefing up their presence on Five Links.

They have sent letters to every resident in the affected area, telling them who to call if they spot anything suspicious, and offering safety tips.

PC Keith Baker, neighbourhood specialist officer for Lee Chapel North, said: “We have already been running operations in the area to combat crime and antisocial behaviour.

“But we have now added extra patrols in the Newberry Side area and surrounding car parks to alleviate any fears residents have.

“We have already had positive feedback from the residents’ association, and we would like to hear from anyone in the area who wants reassurance or action taken on a particular issue.

“We also want to send out a strong message to those responsible for the fires. Arson recklessly endangers lives, and we will deal robustly with anyone found to be responsible for this, or any of the other issues affecting residents’ lives here.”

PC Baker also urged people to turn in the crooks behind the crimes.

He added: “This is a relatively small community, and I am certain someone must know who is responsible for this.

“I would appeal to the conscience of these people to call police or Crimestoppers, which can be done anonymously.”

Residents in Lee Chapel North who still have concerns can speak to their local police at a Neighbourhood Action Panel meeting on Thursday, June 24, from 7pm until 9pm at the All About Centre, in Leinster Road, Laindon.

l Anyone with information about the crimes can contact police at Laindon on 0300 3334444 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.