Councillors call for action to stop antisocial bikers on Canvey

For the past month, scores of young riders have been causing misery for residents by revving their engines, honking their horns and racing in the early hours.

They use lookouts to alert them whenever police are approaching and then ride away when officers arrive.

Now police are to carry out a covert watch to try to catch them.

The group has been seen travelling through the Dutch Village, the Saints Row estate, and along Long Road, Furtherwick Road, Haven Road and Clinton Road.

They have also been seen racing up and down the recently-opened multimillion-pound Roscommon Way extension.

County councillor Ray Howard , who has been inundated with complaints from disgruntled residents, said he is disappointed the problem is still going on and is calling for action.

He said: “It is getting out of control. I’m told these vehicles are coming from miles around and the drivers are organised, using lookouts and phones to alert each other when the police are coming.

“I accept the police are stretched and they do the best they can, but we need this seen to.

“It can’t carry on. It’s already gone on long enough.”

Highways inspectors from Essex County Council have also since been down to the island to assess any damage to the roads.

Janice Payne, councillor for Canvey South ward, said: “Some of these roads have more rubber on them now than Brands Hatch. It’s just not acceptable.”

An Essex Police spokesman said: “We have been carrying out high-visibility patrols in the area of Roscommon Way during the past couple of weekends and will continue to do so this autumn and beyond.

“Our patrols have stopped any antisocial riding and driving that has been taking place at the time, but we do need to collate evidence which will help any prosecutions against individuals.

“We will be carrying out covert patrols in a bid to reduce problems and restore calm and peace to the area.” Anyone with information is urged to contact Essex Police on 101.