RESIDENTS lambasted an MP, claiming he failed to care they are living in fear since a town’s streetlights were switched off.

At a stormy meeting last week, members of the public voiced concerns about burglaries, vandalism and the arson attacks which saw six cars set ablaze in Brooklyn Road, Dovercourt in May where an onlooker claimed firefighters were unable to locate hydrants.

Harwich and north Essex MP Bernard Jenkin held the meeting to discuss concerns about the part-night lighting scheme, which started in March.

Mr Jenkin said he would hold discussions with the police force and Essex County Council to see what could be done.

“It is unrealistic to I am going to get them turned on because I do not have that power,” he said.

“I do want your voices to be heard and your concerns to be addressed.

“There needs to be further meetings with the campaigners, the police commissioner and the fire service.

“Crime did not start in Harwich when the lights went off but it seems to be the real problem.”