THE Home Secretary has praised Colchester's police officers and agreed to a meeting to discuss serious violence after a spate of terrifying town centre incidents.

Colchester MP Will Quince wrote a letter to Sajid Javid asking him to attend a violent crime summit after a double stabbing last week.

He hopes to convene Essex Police, local authorities and relevant charity and volunteer groups to discuss the issue.

A teenager has been charged with murder, attempted murder and possession of a knife after Carl Hopkins, 49, was found dead in Ryegate Road last Monday morning.

Another man was stabbed in George Street the previous night and police believe they are linked.

In an unrelated incident, a man had boiling water thrown in his face in the High Street.

Responding to Mr Quince, Mr Javid said the Government had a clear strategy to tackle violent crime.

He said:"I am very concerned to read about the fatal stabbing in Colchester and the other recent incidents you refer to.

"Please be assured I am absolutely committed to tackling serious violence in all its forms.

Clacton and Frinton Gazette:

Concerns - MP Will Quince shows ministers Gazette coverage of the violent incidents

"It has no place within our communities and I know the terrible devastation it causes.

"I commend Essex Police for their response and efforts to reassure the public.

"It is very important the police are supported but tackling serious violence is not just for law enforcement alone.

"The Government's Serious Violence Strategy is clear a multi-agency approach across a number of sectors is essential, together with effective prevention to address the root causes and drivers of violence.

"Since the strategy was launched last year we have been working at pace and have already delivered many of its commitments.

"This includes providing support through out Early Intervention Youth Fund to 29 projects in England and Wales which will seek to divert children and young people away from violent crime.

"I am very pleased Essex is one of the areas to benefit from this funding."

Mr Javid said the Government were also funding a co-ordination centre to tackle county lines and strengthening the legislation to deal with offenders who use knives, firearms or corrosive substances.

He agreed to meet Mr Quince to discuss the issue further and added: "We are taking extensive action to tackle serious violence and it is a top priority for the Government."