A “night of action” is underway in Colchester tackling alcohol and drug related crime, anti-social behaviour and disorder in Colchester.

Essex Police officers are joining forces with Colchester Borough Council, Military Police, NEPP and the UK Border Force from 3pm until 3am tomorrow, Saturday.

There are increased patrols around the town centre area and close to popular night time venues while plain clothes officers are trying to disrupt gang and drug activity.

Officers from the Community Policing Team will patrol the town centre to issue crime prevention advice, engage with the community and listen to any concerns. People congregating in areas in and around the town centre at night will also be moved on.

Insp Danielle Booth, of Colchester’s Community Policing team, said: “Officers from the CPT and the Special Constabulary will be working shoulder-to-shoulder with partner agencies to promote a safer Colchester.

“We will deal robustly with anyone choosing to commit criminal offences and cause anti-social behaviour.

“With the Christmas party-season rapidly approaching, I am keen to build upon the strong working relationships that already exist with local licensees to provide and promote a safer Colchester for people visiting or socialising within the town centre.”

Mike Lilley, Colchester Borough Council’s portfolio holder for public safety and licensing, said: “All of the community safety partners involved in the Night of Action are fully committed to tackling antisocial behaviour, and to working with the public and businesses to ensure Colchester remains an attractive and vibrant place to visit.

“The evening and night time economy is very important and brings many benefits to Colchester, from employment and regeneration to improving the positive perception and awareness of the borough, and we are all keen to work together to promote it.

“We want this to be a successful event that results in positive action and enforcement, and which delivers a clear message of encouragement to everyone that we each have a responsibility to ensure our Town Centre remains a safe and clean place for all.”

For updates on the night visit facebook.com/EPColchester/.