Hundreds of police officers drafted in to bolster security during Donald Trump’s UK visit were being made to sleep in camp beds in an Essex gym.

Essex Police’s Assistant Chief Constable Pippa Mills apologised for the conditions after pictures of the cramped conditions on social medial were branded an “absolute disgrace”.

The images showed rows of military style camp beds filling a large auditorium at a location somewhere in Essex.

“The conditions which I have been made aware of are not acceptable,” Ms Mills said.

“Working with our military partners we have found alternative accommodation. This will address the concerns highlighted.”

Police forces across the country, including Suffolk Constabulary, have been asked to supply officers for the US President’s visit.

Earlier this week, Suffolk Police Federation, said the demands on resources, including preparations for the Latitude Festival and last night’s England game, were set to stretch policing on the county.

The Police Federation, which represents rank-and-file officers, highlighted the conditions its members were facing.

Simon Kempton, the organisation’s deputy treasurer in England and Wales, said: “These officers have been asked to leave their families to travel to another part of the country to help protect the public and the president and all they expect in return is to be treated with some dignity and respect.

“What’s clear is that anyone overnight who has been arrested by the police would be put in accommodation far superior to what the officers are staying in.”

He said officers at that site are only averaging three to four hours’ sleep ahead of 15-hour shifts because of the conditions.

West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner David Jamieson added the conditions were an “absolute disgrace”.