MALDON’S Mayor has urged residents to vote in next week’s Police and Crime Commissioner Elections.

Next Thursday, Essex residents can choose between five candidates vying to become the successor to Nick Alston, the Conservative elected in 2012.

The candidates are: Bob Spink (Ukip), Chris Vince (Labour), Kevin McNamara (Lib Dem), MartinTerry (Independent) and Roger Hirst (Conservative).

Mark Heard, Mayor of Maldon, said few people voted in the previous election, despite widespread interest in the work carried out by Essex Police.

He said: “Last time less than 20 per cent of the people voted for their police commissioner, and I’m hoping this year that more people do, it’s so important.

“I’m an independent party member and I’m not interested in the new commissioner’s political stance.

“The people should vote for who they think will benefit the safety, security and well-being of the community the most.”

Mr Heard believes police should focus on crime causes in order to prevent them, but the limited presence they have restricts them.

He said: “It’s a funding issue. The police we have do a great job with the resources they are given, but it’s not enough to efficiently tackle the crime and its causes.”