Sir Eric Pickles has responded the to drastic changes announced by Essex Police this afternoon.

The cuts could see Brentwood police station close and up to 19 of 26 PCSO jobs in Brentwood and Epping Forest be cut.

Mr Pickles who today spoke with Essex Police and Crime Commissioner, Nick Alston, about the proposals said: “I am most concerned about the future of our PCSOs who do an invaluable job.

"The PCSOs in Ongar are exceptionally good providing good contacts in the area, and I know they hold regular meetings in the library with local residents.

"I want to make sure the service is retained there.

“I believe the reductions are more severe because of Essex Police’s inability to make sensible decisions over a long time.

“They seem to be cuts without a purpose other than to cut.

"I would like to see Essex Police develop a policing policy fit for modern conditions and crime patterns.

“There is now an even bigger onus on the police to be contactable as well as being seen and accessible. "The Essex Police and Crime Commissioner has told me it is currently impossible to report crimes by email or send photos or supporting evidence by email.

"Many forces across the country have already set up robust email reporting systems; why hasn’t Essex?

“The Essex Police and Crime Commissioner has frequently said he would like to raise the Council Tax precept to better fund policing in Essex.

" This is in the hands of the people and not the Government.

“If the PCC feels he needs to make a case then put it to the people of Essex to decide.”