GRIEVING families my soon have to go all the way to Chelmsford to discuss inquest arrangements with coroner's officers.

Essex Police and the county council are looking at plans to move Hadleigh-based officers to the county town.

At present, arrangements for inquests in Southend, Basildon, Castle Point and Rochford are dealt with at the former Hadleigh police station, in Hall Crescent.

It acts as a local point of contact for families and funeral directors.

Inquests would still held at the Southend courthouse, in Victoria Avenue, but the officers who adminisister them would be in Chelmsford.

Southend-based coroner, Dr Peter Dean is among those who fear the plans will be tough on grieving relatives.

He said: "I am worried if this goes ahead, a public service will be losing the personal touch which is so important for people in difficult circumstances.

"I was informed only a short time ago the office would be moving to Chelmsford from April 1, although this date has since been put back.

"I have contacted the county council and the Ministry of Justice to express my worries."

He added: "I see the coroner's service as essentially local. My officers and I hope to give sympathy and comfort to people who are in difficult circumstances and need all the help they can receive."

Essex Police spokesman Roger Grimwade said the proposals were at an early stage and confirmed there were no plans to stop holding inquests in Southend.

Southend Lib Dem councillor Alan Crystall is also concerned about the move.

He said Dr Dean had alerted him to the proposals after a recent inquest in Southend.

Mr Crystall promised: "I will do everything I can to stop this transfer and ensure these important services are still provided locally."