RUMOURS about rioting in Essex have again been dispelled by police, as off-duty officers are called in to help their colleagues in the capital.

Last night, Monday, Essex Police moved to dispel rumours circulating on the internet that rioting had broken out in Essex.

>A statement criticised the "fictitious and malicious rumours which are circulating this evening, particularly on social networking sites."

Residents were reassured there was no rioting in the county akin to that occuring in London.

Today, the force confirmed around 100 officers had been sent into the capital last night to help out the Metropolitan Police.

Around 50 are still providing support today, and Essex Police has stated the officers involved have been drawn from staff on rest days, so as to minimise disruption to policing in Essex.

The force reported minor disturbances in Buckhurst Hill, including a burglary where 13 men were arrested, plus minor damage to a police vehicle in Loughton which led to two male youths being arrested.

In Harlow, four people were arrested for minor damage in the town centre.

In a statement this afternoon, a spokeswoman for Essex Police said: "Essex Police would like to continue to dispel rumours of violent disorder taking place in Essex. "We have had no large scale disorder and we will work to ensure that Essex remains a very safe county, with neighbourhood policing teams working in local communities to ensure a high visibility policing presence."

Anyone witnessing any incidents taking place is advised to call 999, and those wishing to pass on information or intelligence can call the non-emergency number 101 or 0300 333 4444.

Alternatively, Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111.