RESIDENTS of an area where an elderly man was bullied by thugs shortly before his death, say they fear crime is on the rise there.

The death of reclusive 68-year-old Albert Williams, who suffered abuse in the street and was beaten and robbed in his home in Cedar Close, Southend, has made residents in Victoria ward fearful for their safety.

Mr Williams died last week after a fire in his housing association flat.

Police and fire investigation officers are probing the death.

Janet Laplain, chairman of the Triangle Residents’ Association, said security was provided by South Essex Homes on the Poets Estate, in Victoria ward, but she said many believed crime had risen because there were fewer PCSOs on patrol in the area recently. She said: “If PCSOs hadn’t been cut back, we feel things would have been better. A few things have happened since we haven’t had them.

“They were good at picking up on things that were happening, but now there are problems in the area.

“There are a couple of sheltered housing areas that have had things happen to them.

“They have had things stolen after people got in through windows. The area doesn’t feel as safe as it used to.

South Essex Homes does provide security. It does what it can, but it’s not really down to it. It’s down to the police.”

Mrs Laplain, 63, of Maple Square, Southend, added: “Any residents who are worried should give us a call and tell us about their concerns. We have regular community police meetings, at which we can raise issues. The next is on August 24.”

South Essex Homes is urging residents to get in touch if they are worried about specific incidents, so patrols can be beefed up.

A spokesman said: “Our tenancy services officers are happy to discuss concerns with residents and will look to provide solutions to ensure they feel as safe as possible in their homes.

“Outside of office hours, residents can call our contact centre on 0800 833160 and we can ask the security patrols, who work very closely with Essex Police, to visit them to carry out a welfare check.

“Residents are reminded that, if they feel they are in immediate danger, they should contact the police directly.” Anyone wanting to report concerns to the association should call Janet Laplain on 07940 359318.

A police spokesman said: “Essex remains a very safe county.

Nationally, crime has been rising, but thanks to the hard work and dedication of our officers and staff the story in our county is much more positive.

“We have seen falls in many crime areas, including robbery, theft, burglary, vehicle offences, and drugs, all at a time when more than £50million a year has already been cut from our budget over the last four years