POLICE officers will be out in communities across Essex in the coming days to ensure you’re safe while celebrating the coronation of His Majesty King Charles III.

Chief Constable Ben-Julian Harrington will be attending the gun salute in Colchester to mark the occasion while two officers are taking part in the ceremonial activities in London.

And officers will be patrolling in communities across the county to ensure you can mark and enjoy the day safely.

Assistant Chief Constable Glen Pavelin said: “This is a momentous day for the country and for our county as we mark the start of the reign of His Majesty King Charles III.

“It has huge significance to us as police officers because we are servants of the crown and take our oath to the monarch when we become officers.

“We are honoured to have two of our officers taking part in the ceremonial activities today and I know this is an incredibly proud day for them.

“Essex has a special connection to His Majesty and the Queen Consort having welcomed them both twice recently to mark Southend and Colchester becoming cities.

“We want everyone to enjoy the day with their friends and family safely, and will be there you to keep you safe and if you need help.

“Please look out for each other.”

ACC Pavelin added: “You can help us keep you safe by only calling 999 if there’s an emergency.

“If it’s not an emergency then there are other, better ways to get in touch.

“We are extending our LiveChat on our website to run 24 hours between 10am on Saturday 6 May until 9pm on Monday 8 May.

“Using this service, you’ll be able to speak directly to a member of my team but without having to call us.

“If you have information about an incident or investigation that has already happened, you can also report this to us using our online reporting services: www.essex.police.uk/digital101.  

“If you have questions about road closures or noise nuisance or similar issues to that then please contact your local council as they are the best people to speak to about these issues.

“And if you’re not sure if something is a policing matter or if another organisation would be better placed to help, you can find out by visiting the Ask the Police website: https://www.askthe.police.uk/.”