Dangerous Drivers Warned - Leigh-on-Sea

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Leigh On Sea News: Dangerous Drivers Warned – ON Saturday night, March 22, Police officers responded to reports of anti-social and dangerous driving along the seafront at Southend.

Dangerous Drivers Warned - ON Saturday night, March 22, Police officers responded to reports of anti-social and dangerous driving along the seafront at Southend.

ON Saturday night, March 22, Police officers responded to reports of anti-social and dangerous driving along the seafront at Southend.

They issued a 12-hour dispersal order in the city following the reckless driving of some people who travelled to take part in an unauthorised car meet.

Southend District Commander Chief Inspector Dave Browning said: “We know Southend is a wonderful place to visit, but when drivers descend on the seafront in such large numbers and drive recklessly, they present a real risk to public safety.

“On Saturday night we took robust action to keep people safe, unfortunately we had to close some roads along the seafront and at other locations.

“This followed reports of coins being used as missiles along Western Esplanade and vehicles being driven dangerously and further afield in Old London Road in Wickford and Roscommon Way in Canvey.

“We know the action we took will have caused disruption and inconvenience to some people.

“We don’t take these decisions lightly, they were balanced with a generally good nature event. But unfortunately some drivers were wheel spinning and driving onto the pavement. We have seen the injury wheel spinning causes, so took positive action to protect people.

“This type of driving can easily kill someone.

“We do appreciate the vast majority of people were there for the right reasons and to have a nice evening, but this was ruined by the behaviour of a small minority who were determined to drive recklessly – putting themselves and others at risk.”

On the night one person was arrested on suspicion of drug driving and three cars were seized; one for no insurance and two for anti-social driving.

Chief Insp Browning added: “I want to thank people in Southend for their patience. I know some people will have been disappointed that the car meet was dispersed, but our number one priority is to keep everyone safe.

“I also hope that our actions over the weekend give a clear warning to anyone thinking of coming to Southend and abusing the rules of the roads.

“We will take decisive action if you present a danger.”

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