YOUNG motorists from across the Essex have been warned of the "vigorous" measures police in the county will be taking this summer to prevent dangerous driving.

YOUNG motorists from across the Essex have been warned of the "vigorous" measures police in the county will be taking this summer to prevent dangerous driving.

A widespread clampdown and high-visibility presence will attempt to foil 'boy and girl racers' threatening others' lives by using roads as their own personal race tracks and free arenas, just to show off to others.

During recent weekends, police have witnessed "unacceptable" driver behaviour, ranging from people pouring oil on main roads to motorists caught travelling at lethal speeds, with one recorded at 138mph.

The approach is designed to ensure visitors from outside Essex, as well as local residents, can enjoy the county's seaside resorts and other attractions in a safe environment, free from the threat of "hooligan elements" on the road.

Chief Insp Tim Stokes, who is heading the crackdown, said he had witnessed a full range of "stunts" carried out by such drivers.

"Every weekend we see some crazy stuff, with nearby crowds who are the potential, innocent casualties.

"We have several contacts through out intelligence sources, so we'll be speaking to them in order to let them know of our intentions and the powers available to us," he said.

Recent legislation now provided police with a variety of methods to stop such dangerous activity from continuing.

New powers under the Police Reform Act 2002 allow the seizure of vehicles which are deemed to be in an unfit state or are being driven in an erratic fashion.

Essex Police has seized one vehicle under this act, as well as formally warning a number of motorists.

Mr Stokes added: "We take a very serious view of this sort of recklessness on our roads. Those involved in such crashes often receive horrifying injuries or else end up dying a violent death; as such we will always seek to prosecute any driver who causes such serious and violent crime.

"We will also gather and seize evidence and equipment in order to assist with these prosecutions.

"We admit that this is a big nut to crack, but if we don't do something then someone will be killed. As such, we will use various bits of legislation in new and innovative ways to hammer home the message.

"We will prevent, disrupt and enforce a variety of measures to ensure dangerous motorists do not drive in this county, thereby ensuring public safety."