A MAJOR crime-fighting force has vowed to tackle "slave labour" head on in the wake of our revelations.

The UK Human Trafficking Centre, set up in 2006 by the Home Office to combat human trafficking and forced labour within the UK, was already aware of the sinister practice.

Now, following calls from the Echo, the group - made up of police, customs and other agencies - will make the issue a "key priority".

Spokesman Lou Blomfield said: "We are aware of the issues surrounding the use of illegal workers by members of the travelling community.

"This is one of the key areas of work the UK Human Trafficking Centre is investigating and working on."

Meanwhile, Basildon police was less clear about whether it is directly investigating as a result of our findings.

Basildon Chief Insp Mark Wheeler said investigations would take place if there was evidence of offences being committed.

Mr Wheeler said: "As the articles have shown, police have been involved in a number of the incidents reported, and have taken positive action where there has been evidence available.

"We will always act to protect vulnerable members of society and they, or anyone else who has evidence of offences having been committed, can be assured we will investigate."

The Echo was also contacted by a traveller, who used to live at Hovefields, and was appalled by what we exposed.

He said: "This is going on more than your articles suggest. One man who tried to leave was followed to Pitsea station and brought back. I am glad it has been exposed. It is not right. That is why we moved away."