FIFTEEN dangerous drivers have been slapped with fines after an illegal car meet on Canvey Island.

More than 200 vehicles from as far away as Norfolk attended a car meet in Roscommon Way on Saturday July 1.

Essex Police officers attended, seizing one car and issuing 15 tickets relating to an active public space protection order (PSPO).

A further two boy racers were also issued stern warning for having non-conforming number plates.

READ MORE: BMW seized as police called to car meet on Canvey overnight

Action was taken by the force after concerns were raised by residents who - as well as being disturbed by the noise - fear for the safety of the public.

Illegal car meets can also pose a serious risk to those who take part, not least given the dangerous driving which can often be involved.

District Commander for Castle Point, Chief Inspector Nick Hampson, said: “We understand the impact car cruising events have on the local residents whether it is concerns regarding the standards of driving and the risks associated with this, or with the noise nuisance these incidents generate.

“Essex Police proactively enforce the PSPO in Roscommon Way and will continue to robustly deal with anyone who comes to the area and engages in anti-social driving.”

The area becae subject to a PSPO last September following years of vehicle-related anti-social behaviour which has had a detrimental impact on residents and businesses.

Castle Point Council signed off on the plans to bring the order into place on the island in a bid to crackdown on regular report of yobs using the road like a “racetrack”. 

Speaking at the time, Michael Fuller, Canvey Island Independent Party councillor for Canvey Island North, said: “I live on Canvey and this has been an on-going and unpleasant experience for many years.

“The order includes activities that include recording of the listed activities.

“This is what goes on down there – you have the car drivers but it is the audience that encourages and films them.

“This will go a long way to address this because it is not only the people who drive the cars who are subject to these penalties but any one who goes down there and watches them.”