Security patrols are to be stepped up at a Braintree hospital following a spate of vandalism and theft.

St Michael's Hospital has been targeted in recent weeks, with windows being smashed and break-ins to outbuildings.

Hospital bosses have now decided to employ a security firm to make regular out-of-hours patrols at the Rayne Road complex and Braintree police have also pledged to make checks on the site at night.

Mid-Essex Hospital Services Trust spokeswoman Marnie Coxall said the measures were to be taken following talks with crime prevention officers.

She said: "Since the latest spate of vandalism we have decided to work closely with police to provide a solution. Security guards will be making checks in and around the hospital buildings every night.

"We are taking the situation very seriously and we hope the patrols will act as a powerful deterrent to the vandals."

Braintree police crime prevention officer Geoff Butler added: "We will be keeping a closer eye and paying more attention to the hospital following the recent incidents."

The hospital's current system sees porters work most hours and there are CCTV cameras in the grounds.

Bob Jones, who launched a campaign for 24-hour patrols at the hospital a month ago, gave the news a cautious welcome.

He said: "It's a start, but there still needs to be a bigger presence to deter vandals. I'll be keeping my eye on the situation and I sincerely hope matters will improve, for the sake of patients and staff."

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