A PASSIONATE resident has called on Essex Police to maintain a stronger presence in the district after patrols were increased in the wake of a terrorist attack.

At Maldon District Council’s Crime and Disorder Committee meeting last Tuesday, Maldon resident Simon Gladas said: “I would like to say to the police that I was really impassioned by the police’s response following the awful incident in Westminster in March.

“After the terror attack happened I was walking down passed the police station in Maldon and saw a huge collection of police cars and officers setting out from the station on patrols.

“When I spoke to one of the officers he said that in the wake of the attack they were all on extra patrols to ensure you, the public, are safe and reassured.

“This was incredibly heart-warming and I only wish that we as residents could see more of this all year round, there is nothing more reassuring than seeing a strong police presence in your area especially with lots of reports of crime in the district.

“While the imminent closure of Maldon police station will be concerning to some, it is important for the police to know that what the public want from police is this solid presence and that firm base of operations which they know they can go to.”

Police and Crime Commissioner Roger Hirst said: “As with any major incident such as the one in Westminster on March 22, police nationwide would have been on high alert to ensure the safety of residents.

“The relocation of Maldon’s police to the council offices will allow them to be more active and mobile, to get out to areas of the district and work more with local residents to show a visible presence in more rural areas.”