ESSEX'S police and crime commissioner will host his first public meeting next month in his new role.

Roger Hirst will meet with residents in Thurrock on Thursday, June 9, to discuss crime, community safety and policing concerns.

He will be joined by chief insp Leigh Norris, district commander for Thurroick, as well as representatives from the community safety partnership.

The meeting marks the first of many Mr Hirst is planning to host in different boroughs across Essex to engage with the community.

He said: "I am delighted to be hosting my first public meeting as your Police and Crime Commissioner for Essex and I am looking forward to visiting Thurrock and hearing what residents have to say.

"I hope to provide people with the opportunity to air any of their crime and policing related concerns but also to give them the chance to speak with their local district commander and community safety representatives.

"I encourage everyone in Thurrock to come along and have their say.”

The meeting, which will provide residents with up-to-date information on crime trends in Thurrock, will take place from 6.30pm to 8.30pm at The Beehive in West Street, Grays.