POLICE cuts were criticised by a leading politician when he visited Colchester.

Chris Bryant MP, shadow Labour leader of the House of Commons, called on the audience at Cardinal Bourne Hall to campaign against the Government's austerity programme and join the party's fightback.

It was part of a wide-ranging speech with the overall theme of 'nothing is inevitable in politics'.

Mr Bryant, who is MP for Rhondda, added: "History shows us that nothing is inevitable in politics. It is not inevitable that the Tories will win the next General Election and, at next year's local elections in Colchester, you can kickstart Labour's fightback by helping to get more Labour councillors elected."

Tim Young, Leader of the Labour Group on Colchester Council who chaired the meeting, added: "It was a really good meeting. Chris inspired and motivated those who were present and gave us great hope going forward to next year's vital elections in Colchester."