SOUTHEND’s seafront was flooded with 300 “boy racers” for an unofficial care meet which saw “dangerous manoeuvres”, “antisocial behaviour” and “hostility” towards community safety officers.

Car enthusiasts have come under fire from Southend Council for “inappropriate” behaviour and warned they could be hit by fines for defying a legal order after the car cruise on Monday night on Western Esplanade, Westcliff.

The council admits the cruise started in “good spirits” but community safety officers were later verbally abused and cars were seen carrying out “dangerous manoeuvres”.

Those involved in the car cruise have hit back, claiming a “small minority” may have caused trouble but the event was a success and safely carried out.

The event was unofficial and is the fourth car meet along the seafront within eight weeks and comes in defiance of the council’s public space protection order which bans the gatherings.

Martin Terry, Independent Southend councillor responsible for community safety, said: “Feedback from our community safety officers indicated that a car cruise on Monday started out in good spirits.

“However, as the evening progressed and a crowd of over 300 people gathered on Western Esplanade towards Westcliff, our officers observed increasing antisocial behaviour and hostility, with cars performing various dangerous manoeuvres.

“An initial review of CCTV footage confirms numerous Public Spaces Protection Order offences. This may result in retrospective fines being issued for any breaches, though it’s too early to say how many at this point.

“Such behaviour is inappropriate in a family-friendly resort, particularly with pedestrians nearby.”

There is a car cruise public spaces protection order in place across the city, which was brought in on April 4, 2023 following concerns from residents and businesses.

The order does not ban car meets but is designed to prevent dangerous driving and anti-social behaviour.

Mr Terry added: “We want to emphasise once again that the PSPO does not mean a ban on car meets. Those intending to attend similar events should not fear the PSPO as long as they drive and showcase their vehicles sensibly, respectfully, and safely.

“Unfortunately, many attendees did not show responsible or safe behaviour and so we have a duty to continue to enforce against harmful and dangerous actions and behaviours when necessary.

“Our goal is for families visiting Southend to enjoy their time here. Southend has a vibrant atmosphere, and we are committed to preserving that for everyone.”