BOY racers caught breaking the law are to be offered the chance to attend a hard-hitting course about the consequences of poor driving instead of facing prosecution.
BOY racers caught breaking the law are to be offered the chance to attend a hard-hitting course about the consequences of poor driving instead of facing prosecution.
The action will be part of a three-month clampdown by police on people misusing their cars on Felixstowe seafront.
Officers are worried about possible dangers badly driven vehicles cause to people using the area - and believe the trade-off could help deter the owners from committing further offences.
Problems always arise as soon as the weather starts to get warmer, with youngsters with cars gathering between the Spa Pavilion and Manor End.
In past years there have been complaints of speeding and handbrake turns on Sea Road, plus cars racing around “the circuit” of streets, and noise from car stereos.
Operation Tourism, launched by Felixstowe and District Safer Neighbourhood Team (SNT), is targeted at the anti-social use of motor vehicles, particularly in Sea Road and Undercliff Road West.
Pc Michael Crisp said: “We have identified that as the weather starts to improve after the winter months, there is an increase in the anti-social use of motor vehicles in the Felixstowe area.
“The anti-social use of motor vehicles is a continual nuisance and danger to residents and visitors to the area.
“Prevention through education is the key and this operation will hopefully help to significantly reduce the problem and stop future offences from occurring.”
The aim is for various agencies to work together to deter, prevent and prosecute offenders for the anti-social use of motor vehicles.
Instead of being prosecuted, offenders will be offered the chance to attend the Fire Service Learn and Live presentation at Felixstowe - a hard-hitting and graphic review of poor driving habits and the possible consequences.
If an offender continues to commit anti-social motor vehicle offences then these will be followed by prosecution under a zero tolerance policy.
There are offences which will be exempt from this option, including dangerous driving, driving with excess alcohol, no tax or insurance, and speed offences above 40mph.
Should offenders be given a second chance like this? Write to Your Letters, Evening Star, 30 Lower Brook Street, Ipswich, IP4 1AN, or e-mail eveningstarletters@eveningstar.co.uk
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