Overstretched Essex Police could be next in line in a new bid to stamp out crime.

It follows the launch of a pilot scheme in Norfolk to use post offices for people to report crimes to the police. An Essex Police spokesman said it would be keeping an eye on the results.

"We shall be looking at Norfolk to see how it fares," said Roger Grimwade. He did not rule out the possibility of following in their footsteps.

"We are always keen to see success and we are shameless about copying good ideas."

The pioneering crime-busting scheme was launched in rural Fife in Scotland, offering some over-the-counter police services. Staff would deal with non-emergency matters. These range from handling reports of crime to witness citations.

Published Thursday, October 7, 2004

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