Crime rates have shot up in one of the district's towns, in a trend one councillor has linked to reduced numbers of police.

From 2015 to 2017 in Buckhurst Hill, incidents of all types of crime increased by 43 per cent to 1070 in 2017, according to Essex Police stats.

With 11,374 people in the town, that is one crime committed and recorded for every eleven people.

In nearby Loughton and Chigwell the rise was much less significant, with a 15 per cent and 28 per cent increase in all crimes recorded respectively.

Cllr Steven Neville, Green Party member for Buckhurst Hill East ward, said: "This rise in crime is in good part down to the severe cuts in policing numbers. This is due to the massive funding cuts brought in by a Conservative government and then implemented by the then Conservative Essex Police and Crime Commissioner.

"Why is Buckhurst Hill worst affected in terms of increase? It is true we have been the poorer relation in terms of provision compared to Loughton and Chigwell.

"We certainly should be getting better provision and, whilst I support the small increase in police numbers that Epping Forest District Council and Buckhurst Hill Parish Council and the current Police and Crime Commissioner are contributing to, it is a drop in the ocean compared to the cut backs we have had.

"It is time the government truly woke up to the impact of cutting our police service to the bare bones. Ultimately they are the ones who can make a big difference here."

Last month the first of 38 extra police officers destined for West Essex started working for the force.

Conservative members for Buckhurst Hill West were contacted for comment, but they did not respond by the time of publication.