VILLAGERS will see an increased number of police foot patrols this summer.

Police have announced on social media Lawford Parish Council has provided extra funds to protect the local community.

The funds provided under the police’s Operation Quasar will see more officers providing high visibility foot patrols and offering more reassurance to the public.

An Essex Police spokesman said: “On top of this, we will be tackling antisocial behaviour and speeding.”

Carlo Guglielmi, district councillor for Lawford, Manningtree and Mistley, said more police presence in the area is always welcomed.

He said: “We made a partnership with the police and everyone has been extremely in favour of it.

“It is a very positive scheme we’ve undertaken and we’ve had nobody complain about it.

“Brightlingsea is on the same pilot scheme, and I hope we will continue working together.

“This way the police can offer overtime pay to officers which is paid by the parish council and gets reward for more patrol, which is a luxury.”