POLICE have carried out an intensive week of action targeting anti-social behaviour and poor driving in Colchester.

There were high visibility patrols in Greenstead, New Town, Highwoods, Tiptree and the town centre as well as daily engagement events in including street meets and coffee with cops events.

There was also action taken to combat speeding, fly tipping, and inconsiderate parking.

The activity involved officers from Essex Police's community policing and rural engagement teams as well as special constables.

Insp Laura Stellon, of the Local Policing Support Unit, said officers had received feedback from the local community and councillors about what mattered to them.

She said: “We identified a number of problems that people had told us were affecting their daily lives.

“Anti-social behaviour is linked to criminality and nobody should have to tolerate people causing disturbances or harassing and intimidating them.

"As a result, we have been tackling anti-social behaviour in residential areas and the town centre.

“We have also had reports of cars being driven irresponsibly in built-up areas.

“By having a week of intensive activity, we want to send the message that we take these issues extremely seriously.”

The force working alongside Colchester Borough Council, Essex Watch and Victim Support during the initiative.