A blueprint for keeping crime at bay as Essex enters the new millennium was launched today. Essex Police Authority published its priorities for the year ahead.

These take into account national policing objectives set by the Home Secretary Jack Straw and the results of consultation with Essex residents and businesses.

Essex Police also published a mission statement and a long term strategy for achieving their goals.

A statement released by the force said: "At a time when resources are reducing and demand on policing increasing, the strategy recognises the need to concentrate on clear policing priorities."

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