Youngsters take on police in basketball tournament
University of EssexYoungsters had the chance to talk about knife crime while taking on the police during a basketball tournament.
More than 100 children enjoyed the Ballin' with a Bobby event at the University of Essex, which also saw police provide safety and awareness activities over the summer holidays.
They were awarded medals and fed lunches as they took to the court alongside police officers and professional players from the Essex Rebels.
PC Dex Adams, from Colchester's community policing team, said it was a "great opportunity" to discuss concerns in a more casual environment.
The tournament, funded by Active Essex, was held for primary and secondary school aged children at the Essex Sport Arena.
Older attendees were given the opportunity to listen in to sessions on knife crime and violence.
University of Essex"It is a great opportunity to talk about topics such as knife crime and stop and search in a controlled and respectable environment," Mr Adams said.
He added that intervention would help children to be diverted away from negative behaviours.
Event organiser Jennifer Stanhope, from the university, said it helped to "inspire the next generation".
"It's events like these that make all the hard work worthwhile, seeing the children connect, building their confidence, and developing a sense of belonging through sport is incredibly rewarding," she added.
Follow Essex news on BBC Sounds, Facebook, Instagram and X.