Police officers and fire service officials went head to head in a charity football match to raise money for Basildon Women’s Aid.

Staff from the Essex County Fire and Rescue Service scored four goals against Essex Police’s two to win the Silent Witness trophy.

The ‘Silent Witness Cup’, hosted by Canvey Football Club, is an annual charity football match organised to raise awareness for domestic abuse.

Organisers PC Nicola Pain and PC Caroline Cudby said: “The event helps raise the profile of domestic abuse and encourages people to report locally.

“Basildon Women’s Aid provides the outreach services for people who live in Castle Point and Rochford.

"This is the eighth year that we have held this football match to help raise awareness about domestic abuse.

“Police and fire officers come together with partner agencies to send out an important message that victims shouldn't suffer in silence and help is available."

Andrew Sheldon, mayor of Castle Point Borough Council, who supported the match, said: “Domestic abuse is still a hidden crime and anything that raises awareness of it is a fantastic thing.

“The police and other agencies are committed to getting rid of domestic abuse in our community and work very hard to do so.

“It’s amazing to see that as well as working hard in their day jobs, they are also out raising money for a fantastic charity to support victims.”