IT is D-day for PCSOs in Frinton and Walton as councillors prepare to shape the future of policing in the area.

Until recently the towns and surrounding villages were patrolled by eight community support officers.

Frinton and Walton Town Council shelled out £129,000 every year for the officers – half of the total bill, with Essex Police paying the other half.

But earlier this year the police force announced all match funding would be stopped from April.

The move means councillors must decide how best to use the cash to keep crime levels low and make sure the streets are still patrolled by the best possible police presence.

It has previously been suggested the council could use the cash to fully fund four PCSOs.

Councillors will discuss the way forward and a decision is set to be made by Frinton and Walton Town Council at its meeting tonight.