CRIME levels in Frinton and Walton have stayed “very low” despite the switch to part-night lighting in Tendring.

Walton-based sergeant Pete Gerard discussed the state of policing in the area at the crime and disorder working party held by Frinton and Walton Town Council.

Officers have been carefully monitoring criminal activity since Essex County Council moved to switch off the majority of street lights between midnight and 5am.

Despite the move crime rates are lower in the area than this time last year, with the majority of reported crimes being disputes between neighbours.

The area’s six remaining PCSOs are still operating in Frinton and Walton for now despite their match-funded contract with the town council ending.