MICK Holland is "absolutely ecstatic" after Southend Council and Essex Fire Authority stepped in to save his post as Neighbourhood Watch co-ordinator.

Mr Holland feared his job had been axed, following the closure of the Southend Crime Prevention Panel, which funded the post.

The job will now be jointly funded by Southend Council and Essex Fire Authority, initially for six months, with a view to a longer arrangement being agreed.

Mr Holland said: "I'm absolutely ecstatic. There is so much which goes on behind the scenes with this job.

"If anyone has a problem with neighbourhood watch then I'm often the first point of contact.

"I've had someone on the phone this morning who was worried about a burglary in their street and wanted some advice.

"I look forward to carrying on working closely with colleagues in the community safety team."

Southend councillor Ann Holland, vice-chairman of Essex Fire Authority, said: "At a meeting of the Safer and Stronger Communities Board in December, I raised my concerns after hearing the post of Neighbourhood Watch co-ordinator was in danger of being lost and I was supported by my colleague, councillor Sally Carr."

The cash from the fire service came from the Southend community command.

Ian Robertson, Southend councillor responsible for community safety, said: "We are very pleased the council, helped by Essex Fire Authority, has managed to step in so quickly to ensure the Neighbourhood Watch network is able to keep up its good work."