RESIDENTS say the introduction of CCTV in Rayleigh must now become a top priority.

The fresh calls come after an incident in the town last week, in which gunshots were reportedly fired in Station Avenue.

Two men were arrested on Wednesday in connection with the incident.

A 53-year-old from Rayleigh has been released on bail until September 2 while a 24-year-old from Benfleet has been released under investigation.

Residents and councillors have continually warned of rising antisocial behaviour in the area.

A spokesperson from the Rayleigh Residents Association said: “CCTV would have helped the police with the shooting reports for sure.

“The High Street badly needs it; it’s becoming dangerous.

“CCTV would deter anyone from committing a crime in the town.

“We’re still pushing for 24/7 monitored CCTV.

“It’s so crucial for the town at the moment. This highlights the need for CCTV.”

The spokesman added: “There’s a lot of frustrated residents at the moment. We just don’t know what the councillors are doing.

“It’s difficult to get anything out of them. We’re trying to force the issue again, but as it’s the summer holidays the members of the group are busy. A community safety group has also been set up recently.

“We’re aiming to set up a residents’ meeting in September where everyone can air their most recent concerns.”

Cheryl Roe, deputy leader of Rochford District Council, urged residents to stay patient.

She added: “We’re putting an awful lot of work in behind the scenes.

“I can assure everyone that the issue is not being ignored.

“It’s going to be expensive if we go ahead with it.

“We’re working with the district councillors, the town council, and the parish council to make sure everyone is on board.

“We need to get it right.”