Police get tough on poor driving

By Annie Davidson Sunday, June 27, 2010
9:54 AM

POLICE have carried out a crackdown on drivers on the Essex coast in a bid to improve road safety.

Operation Calypso, a joint effort with Essex Trading Standards, was carried out in the Clacton area on Thursday.

The county-wide initiative focused on the town for a day with the aim of reducing anti-social behaviour by motorists.

Neighbourhood police officer Pc Gary Coe said: “Our specific focus was on the A133 and Jaywick.

“Our aim was to tackle any traffic issues, such as drivers not wearing seatbelts, using mobile phones and speeding, as well as anti-social driving by individuals on mopeds and motorbikes.

“We also worked with trading standards to try and stamp out rogue traders.

“Many of these bogus workmen use roads in our area, so it was an ideal opportunity to work together on the issue.”

During the crackdown, 20 drivers who were spotted not wearing seatbelts were given fixed penalty notices, which include a £60 fine.

A further 11 motorists were also fined £60 and had points put on their licences after being caught speeding or using a mobile phone at the wheel.

Two vehicles were seized by police using special powers which come into force when the driver is found to be uninsured.

Police also arrested a 53-year-old man, from Jaywick, who was wanted by the police in London on suspicion of harassment.

He was later released on police bail until Tuesday when the Metropolitan Police will deal with his case.

Another man from Jaywick, a 36-year-old, was given a fixed penalty notice for being drunk and disorderly.

Pc Coe said: “We are determined to make Clacton’s roads safe for both drivers and other road users and will not tolerate people who break the law.”