Southend is not a 'no-go zone', says police chief

"We’re really proud to serve this community and proud of everything the city has to offer," said Ch Supt Leighton Hammett

A senior police officer has said Southend-on-Sea is not a "no-go zone" after "disparaging" comments were made in the national media following a massive brawl last month.

Ch Supt Leighton Hammett, from Essex Police, said: "Despite the picture some are trying to paint, Southend is a really safe place."

He said it was disappointing that there were people seeking "to talk the city and its people down".

Eight boys and men arrested as a result of the fracas that broke out on 30 July have been charged with a variety of offences, including violent disorder, wounding with intent and possession of weapons, and they remain in police custody.

Essex Police Ch Supt Leighton Hammett has mounted a passionate defence of Southend

Ch Supt Hammett said those that wished to talk the city down were in a "minority", and "80% of people in the district believe we do a good or excellent job – the highest of any area in the county".

He added: "We want people to come here and enjoy the beautiful seafront, the world-famous pier and the fantastic city centre.

"Despite the picture some are trying to paint, Southend is a really safe place."

He said crime had been falling "at a quicker rate than most other parts of the county".

There were 1,500 fewer crimes reported across the district in the last year, 1,000 fewer violent crimes and 80 fewer sexual offences.

A dispersal order was put in place following large groups fighting in Southend last month

Ch Supt Hammett confirmed that knife crime was down 11% and anti-social behaviour had been reduced by 22%.

"I completely and categorically reject the assertion that any part of Southend is a 'no-go zone'," he said.

Every year thousands of people come to the city and "have a fantastic time".

The force was working with Southend-on-Sea City Council, the British Transport Police, rail operators and seafront businesses, to keep people safe.

In total 75 arrests had been made during the summer months and 230 stop searches were carried out, with more than 40% leading to illegal items being discovered.

"It’s really disappointing that there are people within Southend who seek to talk the city and its people down", he added.