TWO awards have been given to members of Thurrock Council's enforcement team.

The Essex Police awards are in recognition of the work they do to tackle and prevent anti-social behaviour.

The team picked up a Certificate of Recognition and a Long Service Award at the first ever Community Safety Accreditation Scheme Awards, which took place at Essex Police HQ.

The Community Safety Accreditation Scheme (CSAS) allows the Chief of Essex Police to designate extra powers to non-police officers working in a community safety role.

These powers include being able to seize alcohol from under 18s, issue fixed penalty notices to anyone causing harassment or distress and demand that those causing trouble give them their name and address. 

Cllr Andrew Jefferies, Leader of Thurrock Council, said: "Our enforcement officers do a tremendous job in both preventing anti-social behaviour and making sure those who break the rules are held to account.

"These awards recognise their hard work and demonstrate that the additional powers they have qualified for are being put to good use to make a positive difference in the borough."

Tony Atkin, Essex Police District Commander for Thurrock, said: "We know anti-social behaviour (ASB) in all its forms is a priority not only for Essex Police but also for the people of Thurrock and they want to see us tackling this. ASB is not a minor issue, and can have a detrimental impact on individuals and the community as a whole.

"Persistent anti-social behaviour blights people's lives and, if enforcement action is needed, we will take it. This includes issuing community protection warnings and community protection notices if the anti-social behaviour continues.

"We work with our partners in Thurrock Council, in a joined-up approach to tackle these issue. As a result of that work our Community Safety Partnership team have secured a Public Spaces Protection Order for Grays, which provides Police and council enforcement officers additional powers to issue fines when it is breached. This has seen a reduction in reported ASB within Thurrock by 32.2% within the last 12 months."

"The council's enforcement officers have my gratitude for their efforts in keeping Thurrock safe."