ESSEX Police are launching their new rural crime strategy at an event at Stow Maries Great War Aerodrome.

Residents with concerns about rural crime, or who just want to find out more are welcome to attend the free event, in Hackmans Lane, Purleigh.

Roger Hirst, Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner for Essex, said: “If you live or work in the rural community and want to learn more about how to protect yourself against crime as well as finding out about the new rural crime strategy and how it affects you, then come along.

“We hear regularly from residents who are affected by rural crime and this will be a good opportunity to show how seriously we are taking their concerns as well as offering them good advice on how to prevent crime from happening in the first place.”

Chief Inspector Ian Gennery, head of Essex Police’s new Gypsy, Traveller and Rural Engagement Team, added: “People coming along will have the chance to meet and find out about the work of my new team whose role is specifically focused on serving the rural community.

“The launch of this new strategy will reaffirm our commitment to tackling crime in rural communities and will set out how we will work with our partners to do this.”

The event is running Thursday, between 1pm and 4pm and features stands from a number of Essex Police partners including Crimestoppers, Neighbourhood Watch and Essex Rural Partnership.