Thurrock: Drivers In Road Racing Prosecution

More than 60 drivers are going to be prosecuted after police broke up an illegal cruiser event in Thurrock.

Those involved have been charged with speeding and road racing offences after the 'drifting' and road racing event on a section of dual carriageway near the Lakeside shopping Centre on Saturday, May 4th.

Essex Police used unmarked cars with video recording equipment fitted inside to catch those involved.

Offenders have been identified through vehicle index numbers.

Sgt Simon Willsher, who led the police investigation, said: "Cruiser events in Essex are usually good-natured and enjoyed by hundreds of enthusiasts who meet to show off their cars and talk about their hobby.

"But there is always the minority of drivers who take part in illegal street racing and drifting events, putting their own lives and the lives of spectators at risk.

"On Saturday night at Lakeside cars were racing at up to 80mph along a section of road that has a 40mph limit. These speeding cars were passing only inches from spectators who had no crash barriers or railings to protect them had any of those cars crashed out of control.

"We will continue to act robustly to deal with drivers who break the law while taking part in these events."