A RE-APPOINTED Deputy Police Fire and Crime Commissioner for Essex has pledged to continue focusing the force's efforts in tackling domestic abuse and protecting the vulnerable from harm.

Roger Hirst, the Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner for Essex, confirmed Jane Gardner's reappointment during a meeting on Thursday, June 17.

Roger said: “I’m am delighted to say that the panel has confirmed my recommendation for Jane to continue as my deputy following my re-election last month.

“Jane is a real asset to my team and works hard to make our county a safer place.

"Since being appointed in 2016 she has focussed our efforts in tackling domestic abuse, protecting vulnerable people from harm, and engaging with our communities. She has been integral to developing our Police and Crime Plan and Fire and Rescue Plan, building excellent, respected relationships with officers, staff and volunteers of both Essex Police and Essex County Fire and Rescue Service as well as with our business and rural communities. She is passionate about supporting young people, equalities and champions the voices of those who sometimes struggle to have their views heard.

"I’m proud to have Jane on the team and am looking forward to what we can achieve in the future.”

Jane said: “As a lifelong resident of Essex, I feel hugely proud and very privileged to serve as the Deputy Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner and work with such great people who are committed to making our county a safer place.

"I will continue to focus on our efforts to tackle domestic abuse, producing our next Police and Crime Plan and refreshing our Fire and Rescue Plan as well as continuing to bring all our communities together to ensure they have a voice.

"I’m also looking forward to building on the on-going relationships we have forged with businesses, particularly the Essex Chamber of Commerce, rural partnerships and of course all of those who work so hard in the voluntary sector.”

Jane lives in Colchester and has nearly 40 years’ experience of working in the public sector across Essex.

Before joining the crime boss' office, Jane was head of commissioning – Growing Essex Communities at Essex County Council and was previously the council’s senior policy and strategy manager.

Jane also volunteered as a special constable for Essex Police for seven years, reaching the rank of special superintendent.

She chairs the Southend, Essex and Thurrock Domestic Abuse Board and the Essex Reducing Reoffending Board.