MORE rural police are needed to crackdown on crime, according to Colchester Council's safety boss.

A man was left with facial injuries after being kicked in the head by a group of people after he left a party.

The victim, who is in his 20s, had been at a gathering in the Parkfield Street area of Rowhedge.

After leaving at around 1.15am he was attacked by a group of people who forced him to the floor and kicked him in the head.

The incident happened on Monday May 8 but details have only just been released by the police.

Colchester Council’s community safety boss Mike Lilley (Lab) who also represents Rowhedge on the council in his Old Heath and the Hythe ward, said more police resources were needed in rural parts of the borough.

He said: “It is a worrying incident and made even more worrying by the lack of police resources especially in more rural areas.

“There are not enough numbers and I would like to see East Donyland Parish Council team up with the other parishes - Fingringhoe, Langenhoe, Peldon and Abberton - to fund a special constable to patrol the areas.

“It is old fashioned and I get told off for saying it when I bring it up with the police and crime commissioner but people like to see a bobby on the beat.

“Even a small police presence can help to deter crime in rural areas before it has even begun.”

Mr Lilley said he has organised a meeting with Colchester MP Will Quince to discuss policing numbers in Colchester.

He added: “With police needed so badly in built up town centres it is an opportunity for criminals to operate on the edges of the borough.

“There is nothing to stop them.

“I’m a bit advocate of neighbourhood watch in Rowhedge and would urge anyone who knows anything to call the police and help them with their investigation.”

Anyone with any information is asked to contact PC Christopher Raynsford at Colchester police station on 101 quoting crime reference number 42/65904/17.

Alternatively, you can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or contact them via the website on crimestoppers-uk.org.