THE CHIEF Constable of Essex, has stressed why Essex Police will always support community events like Pride

Mr Harrington said: “We are the biggest and best the force has ever been as we work with our communities, for our communities on behalf of our communities.

“Essex Police is the largest it has ever been; we have more officers, more staff and more volunteers all working incredibly hard to keep communities across the county safe and deal with criminals.

“And we’re starting to see the impact of that. Crime is coming down. There were 3,000 fewer crimes in Essex in the last year than the previous year. That means 3,000 fewer victims. And antisocial behaviour is down by a third.

“But we’re also a better force, a more representative force. We serve a brilliant, diverse county and we’re strongest when we represent and understand the communities we serve.

We have people joining from a whole range of backgrounds within Essex and beyond. We’re not complacent – we know there is more to be done and we are determined that our force fully reflects the communities we serve. That’s why it’s so important to me that we continue to take part in events like Pride and National Inclusion Week, where we proudly stand together with our colleagues and communities to remind everyone that we support and actively encourage everyone to embrace their most authentic selves. I truly believe a happier, well supported force can deliver a better service; to catch criminals and make Essex a safer place to live and work.

“Essex Police is a force full of enthusiastic, committed, and keen individuals ready to protect and serve the people of Essex in a variety of roles so I would ask people to get involved, as an officer, a staff member, or a volunteer. It’s my job, supported by the force and our communities to make sure they’re well-trained, given the resources they need to protect their communities and to come to work every day feeling respected and encouraged to be the best version of themselves”

Here’s where you might see Essex Police during Pride Month 2023:

Essex Pride – 24th June, Central Park, Chelmsford

Clacton Pride – 1st July, Greensward Field, West Greensward, Clacton

Southend Pride – 15th July, Warrior Square Gardens, Southend-on-Sea

Colchester Pride – 12th Aug, First site, Lewis Gardens, Colchester

Basildon Pride – 2nd Sept, Gloucester Park, Basildon

It doesn’t matter where you’re from or what your background is – it’s not ok to be abused or targeted for who you are.

Hate crime can come in many forms and you can report this to us on our website – Report hate crime | Essex Police.

Please always call 999 in an emergency