Southend: “We’re there to help everyone feel safe and enjoy the bank holiday weekend” – Ch Supt Leighton Hammett

Southend is a family-friendly resort and our officers will be on patrol across the bank holiday weekend to help everyone make the most of the city, says Chief Superintendent Leighton Hammett.

While there are policing plans in place to deal with anyone intent on spoiling the atmosphere, Ch Supt Hammett is keen to emphasise that the city is open for business and wants to reassure visitors and residents that they shouldn’t be deterred by recent headlines.

He said: “It’s real shame to read the negative way the city has been depicted recently when those of us who live and work here know this is not the day-to-day reality.

“Hundreds of thousands of people visit Southend every year, and if you walk along Marine Parade when the sun’s out, you’ll see people of all ages enjoying the beach and attractions.

“It’s been really heartening to see local residents, business owners and elected officials speaking out to defend their city.

“The only people who should think twice before visiting Southend are those intent on causing trouble. Events of the last few weeks have shown that if you commit crime, you’ll be swiftly dealt with.”

Throughout the summer, the busiest areas of Southend are patrolled by a dedicated team of officers under Operation Union. This weekend will be no different and anyone in the city centre, at the train stations or down on the seafront should expect to see high visibility patrols taking place.

The bank holiday weekend will also see the force's new live facial recognition vans deployed.

Ch Supt Hammett added: “We have a strong working relationship with our partners at the city council and their community safety team and CCTV operators, the British Transport Police, and the seafront traders and their security teams. Crime and anti-social behaviour are falling, and we are united in wanting what’s best for the city.

“I’d also like to thank the support we’ve received from the public of Southend. The city has been welcoming visitors for more than a century and has a well-deserved reputation as a great place to enjoy yourself. We can’t let senseless actions of handful of individuals from outside of the area damage that.

“Our officers are out patrolling to help people and make sure nobody steps out of line. If you see anything that concerns you tell them immediately, or if you just say want to say hello, they’re always happy to have a chat. We’re there to help everyone in the city to feel safe and enjoy the bank holiday weekend.”

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