TACKLING domestic abuse and anti-social behaviour which could be linked to drugs are key police issues for the Manningtree area, according to Tendring’s top police officer.

District commander Russ Cole met with Lawford councillor Val Gugliemi and MP Bernard Jenkin last Friday at Mistley police station to discuss crime issues in the area.

Mr Cole said he was aware of the issues affecting the area and would be working hard to stamp out the problems.

He said: “One of the issues that people in Manningtree is kids hanging around the railway station and various parks in the area.

“We are alive to the threat of anti-social behaviour.

“Some of the reasons for the congregations have got nothing to do with the police however some of them are concerning things like gangs, risky behaviour, drugs and are examples of anti-social behaviour.

Mr Cole said the police have had great success in stamping out crimes like burglaries and robberies in the area.

Mrs Guglielmi said she was shocked following the meeting with Mr Cole.

She said: “Apparently the levels of domestic violence and substance abuse are a lot bigger than what we thought.

“But I did not know there was a such an issue with domestic violence and abuse.

“It wasn’t something I expected and I am shocked to be honest.”