POLICE have warned they will take action against any unruly behaviour today as thousands visit Southend seafront for the much-loved shakedown.

The event, which is returning after a three-year absence, has seen bikers from across the country travel to the city to meet with other enthusiasts.

The seafront was already packed out by 11am, with organisers predicting around 6,000 bikers will be attending during the day.

Essex Police has sent officers to the event to help manage it, and Chief Insp Darren Deex has warned any antisocial behaviour from visitors will not be tolerated.

He said: “It is great to see people coming to Southend to enjoy the Shakedown today.

“I really hope people enjoy themselves but I want people to do that safely.

“Officers will be across the city today to ensure the safety of riders, drivers and pedestrians.

“But we will draw the line at anti-social and dangerous behaviour.

“Just like on any other day of the year, this will not be tolerated.

“The officers on the ground will act where incidents occur.

““If anyone records dashcam or helmet camera footage of any offences, please upload them to our Extra Eyes team, using http://extraeyes.egressforms.com and we will review the footage and take action where appropriate.”

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The Shakedown was originally organised by Ace Cafe and ran for 18 years until it was cancelled in 2017.

Enthusiasts from across the country returned with their motorbikes, scooters and mopeds in 2019 for what was known as the Southend Shakedown Resurrection