Braintree's MP believes voluntary police officers are a good way to reassure people living in rural areas.

James Cleverly is backing Essex Police’s Special Constables scheme after listening to some of his constituents’ concerns about crime.

Mr Cleverly says a number of people, particularly in the Halstead area, want to see an increased police presence and he believes utilising special constables is one way to address their concerns.

He said: “One of the things that I have been speaking to people about is getting special constables in, particularly for rural parts of the county.

“Obviously in the towns there is higher crime so there are understandably more police officers but people want to see a visible presence in other areas too.

“I agree that having officers out on patrols helps to reassure the public and deter crime.

“Special constables are perfect for that role because they live locally, they know the area and know the local people.

“Having a mix of local knowledge and power to arrest is a powerful tool and would work well in the rural spots.”

Halstead Town Council has asked for clarification on the role of special constables before deciding whether to begin the process of appointing them.

It is understood there is provision for two special constables in the town council budget, however councillors have asked for assurances they would be responsible for Halstead only and not be needed to patrol the nearby villages.