DESPITE a rising level of local anxiety, Thurrock's police chief says his force is working successfully to reduce the number of vehicle thefts across the borough.

Concerns about what appears to be a rising tide of thefts across local communities is commonly expressed on social media.

And the fear, worry and stress such thefts cause were highlighted by a Stanford-le-Hope resident at the weekend when balaclava-clad men attempted to break into his garage.

The resident told Thurrock Nub News: "There has been a rise in stolen bikes around the local area and there's no police around like there used to be.

"My garage got ripped off its hinges by these would-be thieves but they failed to get anything, thankfully, because I was fast-acting and confronted them so they ran off.

"However, they later stole someone else's bike. They broke into a 80-year-old man's house to take his keys and then dumped his bike in Corringham.

"It's the exact same people all the time and nothing seems to get done about it."

Police have confirmed they are aware of the attempted theft and garage break-in, saying: "We are investigating a burglary in Corringham Road, Stanford-le-Hope, where suspects have forced entry to a garage and attempted to take motorbikes.

"The incident reportedly took place about 12.45am on Sunday 13 September.

"Our enquiries are ongoing and anyone with information should contact us quoting investigation 42/146160/26.

"You can let us know by submitting a report on our website where you can use our online Live Chat service available Monday to Friday (excluding public holidays) between 10am-9pm.

"Visit https://www.essex.police.uk/digital101to find out more about our website reporting services. Alternatively, you can call us on 101.

"If you would like to make an anonymous report, you can contact independent charity Crimestoppers on Twitter at @CrimestoppersUK, by visiting their website or by calling 0800 555 111."

Thurrock District Commander Chief Inspector Daniel Barnes said his teams were aware of the public's concern but said the reality was different to perception.

He told Thurrock Nub News: "We understand the impact crime like this has on innocent members of the public.

"The effects extend well beyond any monetary loss - even when thieves don't take any belongings the damage to property and a victim's sense of security can be huge.

"It's why we work so hard in Thurrock to identify those responsible for these crimes, and

"I'm glad to say we're seeing fewer vehicle thefts this year compared to the previous 12 months."