Vandals are making life miserable for residents and business people in Silver End and Rivenhall, it was claimed this week.

Incidents include broken windows, damaged notice boards, manhole covers ripped up, and youngsters running through gardens at night, according to Green councillor James Abbott.

"There have been thefts from sheds, outhouses and vans during the last year, and many people feel this is part of a rising trend," said Mr Abbott.

Now he has appealed to Witham police to step up police foot patrols in the villages.

"We would particularly like to see more in the evening," he said. "Even if the offenders cannot always be caught, the presence of a police officer puts them off causing problems in the first place.

"One shop in Silver End had most of its windows broken by youths throwing full cans of drinks at them.

"Actions like that can force a local business to close down, and that would make the situation worse for everyone in the village.

"There is good work being done in Silver End with the youth club, but this cannot solve all the problems. In Rivenhall, the problems are not as bad.

"I recognise the problems are not restricted to Silver End and Rivenhall, but form part of a wider picture of concerns about crime in rural areas."

Acting Inspector Julian Hallam, of Witham police, said that the number of foot patrols in rural areas of Witham police section had already been substantially increased.

"Since early September, we have put in some 400 hours of additional manpower over and above normal policing levels into Witham's rural areas, and will continue to do so," he said. "Most of this extra activity is foot patrols.

"We do not believe there has been a sudden increase in crime in Silver End, but we recognise the problems. However, in order for us to do something about crimes, they have to be reported, and it concerns me that Councillor Abbott feels that some crimes are not being reported.

"We would urge people to report them, either by telephoning 01376 551312, or anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555111."

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