A NEW police helpdesk officially opened in the heart of Basildon this week.

Police are hoping the move will improve relations between the force and the public, giving residents an alternative place to go to speak to officers.

Under the three-month pilot scheme, organised by police and Basildon Council, a fully trained police support worker now mans a dedicated desk in the reception area of the Basildon Centre, in St Martin's Square.

From today the officer, will be on hand, along with council staff, to help resolve community issues, log crime reports and discuss any other issues or worries residents may have.

Basildon-based Chief Insp Jan Harrison welcomed the opening of the town centre helpdesk.

She said: "This will improve the public's access to police.

"People, such as the elderly, don't always want to have to go and sit in a police station.

"With an officer at the Basildon Centre, they can just pop in and speak to someone, when they are out shopping or in the town."

Basildon Council chief executive Bala Mahendran added: "The police is now one of the range of community services residents can access under one roof.

"It means our customers can report a crime or get information and advice from the police at the same time as they use our services.

"By offering easier and more convenient ways for residents to get the help they need, we are contributing to building a safer Basildon."

The police service desk will be open from 9am to 5.15pm, Monday to Friday.