A new job is being created within Castle Point Council to specifically tackle anti-social behaviour in the borough.

The Home Office has made £50,000 available to bring the new officer into the area as a full-time post for two years.

The position is currently being advertised and it is likely the candidate will work together with the community safety officer Ian Kennedy.

Mr Kennedy said: "We are still in the process of getting applications in for the job.

"But we want to be proactive and we need a dedicated anti-social behaviour officer.

"The job is only for two years at the moment because there could be a change in Government and the funds may not be available.

"Although this is a relatively quiet area for crime the area does suffer from youth nuisance."

Mr Kennedy said the officer will be able to free up police time.

He added: "The aim of their job is to patrol the streets on foot. This means there will be a physical presence of officers who will be able to deal with the more low-level crimes."

Published Friday March 5, 2004

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