ESSEX Police is the second cheapest in the country, according to new figures.

A new crime and police force comparator has been made public which allows anyone to compare crime rates, quality of service, value of service and manpower.

The first figures, detailing the 12 months up to June 2011, show Essex is the second cheapest, when you take into account all costs and responsibilities, at £168.47 a year per person.

It is also the ninth best performing force in the country.

See the full story in Tuesday's Gazette.