HOME Secretary Suella Braverman is reported to have intervened in the furore over the visit by uniformed police officers to a Thurrock pub when they took away a number of golly dolls and other marketing memorabilia associated with Robertsons Jams.

There has been considerable public outcry about the action of Essex police at the White Hart in Grays, first reported on Thurrock Nub News last week.

And pub landlady Benice Ryley has called on the force to return the items, which the force says were taken away while they investigate a possible 'hate crime'.

Media reports say Ms Braverman is said to have been 'furious'when she heard about the incident and has told Essex Police that bosses should be 'focusing on catching real criminals rather than seizing toys'.

And a Home Office source is quoted as saying: "The Home Secretary's views have now been made very plain to Essex Police so they're under no illusions.

"Police forces should not be getting involved in this kind of nonsense.

"It's about tackling anti-social behaviour, stopping violence against women and girls, attending burglaries and catching criminals – not seizing dolls."

However, Essex Police has today (Monday, 10 April) said that it has not had contact from the Home Secretary over the investigation

A statement says: "We are investigating an allegation of hate crime reported to us on 24 February. 

"Essex Police have discussed the progression of this case with the Crown Prosecution Service. 

"On Tuesday, 4 April, officers attended a location off Argent Street, Grays, and seized several items in connection with that investigation.

"The investigation is ongoing so we will not be commenting further at this stage.

"The force is proud of the work we do prevent crime, tackle offenders and build trust and confidence in all communities."

White Hart landlords Chris and Bernice Ryley with the dolls that were confiscated by police.

Ms Ryley, 61, was quizzed by officers after police received an anonymous complaint about the display. It took 39 days from receipt of the call in February to police visiting the pub.

The incident mirrors similar action in 2018 when both police and Thurrock Council investigated the display of dolls and merchandise following a previous complant. Neither council or police concluded at the time that there had been any breach in legislation or offences committed.

Mrs Braverman has previously spoken about the need for everyone to understand and acknowledge there are different perceptions.

And that tolerance cuts more than one way and existing communities have rights as well as those coming from away.

She has said: "The UK is home to many different cultures. I am proud of the tolerance and respect that we show to people coming to this country from abroad.

"That is not to say that tensions do not sometimes arise between communities.

"I believe that we can do more to ensure that immigrants integrate fully into British society.

"Refusing to address integration is unfair to immigrants and to existing communities.

"Holders of public office need to lead by example.

"A belief in equality, democracy and respect for the law underpins British society.

"It is important that public leaders understand this and lead according to these values."

The College of Policing issued updated guidance last month stating that non-crime hate incidents should not be recorded where there is no basis to conclude that an incident was motivated by hostility.

The guidance also states: "Wherever possible, freedom of speech should be prioritised."

New non-crime hate incident guidance is due to be in force by the summer.