A POLICE absence from Dunmow s town centre is set to end next week as the officers set up a brand new beat surgery in the heart of town. White Street s new library is thought to provide the perfect location for regular police sessions, allowing the public

A POLICE absence from Dunmow's town centre is set to end next week as the officers set up a brand new beat surgery in the heart of town.

White Street's new library is thought to provide the perfect location for regular police sessions, allowing the public to stop by and share their information or concerns.

Neighbourhood specialist officer for Dunmow Central, Pc Neville Hayden, said: "The regular beat surgery is a great way for the team to meet local people and for them to raise any community concerns they may have.

"We are also able to provide crime prevention advice including a few simple steps that anyone can take to help keep themselves even safer."

The beat surgeries begin on June 30 and will continue every Tuesday, from 10am until noon, and Saturday from noon until 2pm.

Originally the old Dunmow police station on Stortford Road was the place for the public to go but that closed in early 2008 and staff were moved to a new station on the outskirts of town.

Regular surgeries were still held at the old station but differing opening times led to the public largely staying away.

Now though it is hoped that the local force will re-connect with the public. Joining Pc Hayden at the surgeries will be PCSO Glenn Braden and Neighbourhood Sgt Chris Sharp.

PCSO Braden said: "We learn a lot about what really matters to the community at our regular beat surgeries, so please come along to the new venue and let us know your thoughts."

WHAT do you think? E-mail us at editor@dunmow-broadcast.co.uk or write to us at 54 High Street, Saffron Walden, Essex, CB10 1EE.