Drive anti-socially and we could crush your car - police

Officers have received complaints from businesses and shopkeepers about cars racing around the town, sometimes travelling in convoy with loud exhausts or gathering at Wilton Road car park. The problem is worse in the late evening.

Police say this kind of driving poses a risk to motorists and pedestrians alike and could lead to someone being injured or killed.

Consequently they are taking a ‘zero tolerance’ approach to the problem stopping any motorists caught driving anti-socially. They will check their car for roadworthiness and illegal modifications and will also be using their ‘Section 59’ powers under the 2002 Police Reform Act, warning anyone driving in a manner deemed inconsiderate and careless that if they are caught again within 12 months their vehicle will be taken away.

Once the car is removed the owner has to pay £150 to get it back and £20 per day for storage. If it isn’t collected within 14 days the vehicle will be crushed.

Pc Phil Gray said: “We don’t want to stop car enthusiasts but some of the driving behaviour that is being reported to us could lead to an accident and we have a duty to protect the public.

“I would urge anyone who witnesses this sort of driving to make a note of the registration numbers and let us know. Under the legislation, police officers don’t have to witness the event themselves and can rely on accounts from the public to help stop the problem.”

Inspector John Gray, head of Melton police, added: “We will not tolerate this type of anti-social driving as it puts other people’s lives at risk. Melton is a busy town which everyone should be able to enjoy.”

l To report poor driving behaviour call 101 and, when prompted, enter the i/d number 2954 to leave a message for Pc Gray.