POLICE sirens wailed over the recreation ground in Old Heath, Colchester...but it was youngsters behind the wheels of squad cars.

The emergency services, Army and voluntary organisations held a community day for residents.

Young and old were encouraged to get hands-on experience of the work they do.

The event, organised by the Safer Colchester Project, was designed to show people how the different agencies work together to make the community safer.

PC Lee Ward, who helped organise the day, said these types of events were important to reassure people that crime, including antisocial behaviour, was being tackled.

He added: “We wanted to give something back to the community by showing them the services on offer. We want to reassure people that Colchester is a safe place to live and we are continuing to make it safer.”

Activities included a driving simulator, the chance to dress up in police uniforms, and a climbing wall, provided by the Army.

Maya Ward, nine, who lives on Granville Road, Old Heath, was one of the youngsters to get involved.

She said: “It’s exciting. I can’t wait for the police helicopter to come. I have heard sirens before. It’s good to see what the police do.”