POLICE bosses say they have been “inundated” with people seeking help at a new community hub set up to tackle crime in Basildon.

The hub opened at the Eastgate shopping centre, opposite the food court, in a bid to help police build stronger relationships with businesses and residents.

Officers said it will mean it can offer a highly-visible police presence and a place for residents to report any issues.

The site opened its doors for the first time on Saturday and has since seen more than 250 people visit looking for advice.

A spokesman for Essex Police Basildon’s community team said dozens of people had sought help and advice at the centre since opening on Saturday.

The spokesman added: “We have had a very successful and busy three days, we have spoken to more than 250 people providing advice on various topics, plus local organisations and partners have been busy providing information on keys areas and sign posting people to other organisations and charities within our communities.

“We have a colouring competition for the child and other activities such as indoor archery scheduled for Friday, July 26.

“We are open between 9am to 5pm from Friday through to Monday until September 1. Each week will be advertising a schedule of agencies and activities in the window.”

The idea behind the new hub was initiated by Sgt Liz Reschwamm along with PC Alex Plakhtienko in a bid to be “visible and connected” to the community.

As well as speaking to police, visitors will also be able to access information and advice from a variety of organisations with a presence in the hub including the fire service, drug and alcohol charity Open Road, the NHS and Basildon Council.

Sgt Reschwamm said: “We want to be visible and connect with the local community, particularly young people. During the summer holidays, we expect the town centre to be busy and this can lead to an increase in incidents.”