The district’s top police officer faced tough questions as more than 100 people attended a meeting about a rise in crime in Witham.

Residents packed out Spring Lodge Centre on Monday evening as they quizzed District Commander Craig Carrington.

The meeting was organised by Witham Town Council to discuss a spike in anti-social behaviour, however discussion soon turned to officer numbers, street lights and police funding.

Chief Insp Carrington said he would not to make promises he could not keep.

He said: “Essex Police is the least funded force per head which has to have an impact.

“I have not got additional resources to give you. I am getting another five officers on my response teams and four for my local policing teams, but since 2010 we have lost 800 officers (in Essex).

“I would prefer to be out on the street and Priti Patel and Roger Hirst be here answering your questions, but part of my role is talking to the community and I will do anything I can to address your concerns.”

Impassioned residents told personal stories of assaults, vandalism and abuse - many involving groups of youths.

A representative from Tesco in the Grove Centre, spoke about how staff were “intimidated” by youths, and residents reported youngsters playing chicken and riding dirt bikes on the pavements across the town.

Mr Carrington admitted year on year crime figures across the district had risen by around 14 per cent, but insisted residents need not be afraid of crime.

He said: “I still think Witham is a safe place to live, but the community needs to work together to see how it can support the police.

“The closure of the police station coupled with the reduction in officers has led to a fear of crime and perpetuation of that story.”

MP Ms Patel did not attend due to “parliamentary commitments”. A meeting will be held on Thursday, May 31, with Ms Patel and Police and Crime Commissioner Roger Hirst.