Concerns have been raised about the “hostile” police response to victims of crime in the Maldon district.

Neighbourhood Watch co-ordinators have complained about the response when reporting incidents using the Essex Police non-emergency number.

Great Totham watch co-ordinator Linda Priestley said: “Every time I have reported something, the control room has been quite hostile.

“I can understand they’re under pressure, but I do resent the feeling that I’m wasting their time.” 

An Essex Police spokesman said he was unable to comment on the complaints without the time and date of calls in question.