TWO speedboat drivers and a jet ski rider have been fined by Colchester magistrates for breaking marked speed limits off the coast near Brightlingsea.

Magistrates heard how Glen Harper and Donald McGeachy, who were both driving speedboats, and Paul Smith, who was riding a jet ski, breached a Byelaw by travelling at speeds significantly greater than the 8 knot speed limit.

Harper, of Felstead Road, Benfleet, was spotted travelling at about 15 knots, just 20 minutes after being stopped by another officer and handed a leaflet about the speed restrictions.

McGeachy, of Wellington Road, Maldon, was stopped twice, the first time for speeding at 25 knots and again, 20 minutes later, proceeding at 12-14 knots.

Smith, of Stratford Gardens, Stanford-le-Hope, was pursued by a police launch for two miles, at speeds of up to 35 knots, 100 yards off Mersea Island, having already been stopped and warned about speeding earlier in the day.

All three pleaded guilty by post.

Magistrates fined Harper £440 plus a victim surcharge of £44 and £250 costs.

McGeachy was fined £1360 plus a victim surcharge of £136 and £250 costs.

Smith was fined £720 plus a victim surcharge of £72 and £250 costs.

All three defendants were intercepted by Essex marine police enforcing byelaws, during two Marine Days of Action.

The joint operation, on April 29 and 30, saw Colchester Council assist the police, Brightlingsea Harbour staff, the UK Border Agency and the RNLI to undertake educational and enforcement roles off the Mersea coast and along the River Colne following concerns about anti-social behaviour.

A third day of action is planned for this Sunday.

Councillor Mike Lilley, portfolio holder for Public Safety and Licensing, said: “Speed limits are in place to ensure the safety of all river users, whether they are on jet skis, speed boats or swimming. We want people to come and enjoy our wonderful coastline, but we also want them to act responsibly and within the law.

“I hope these prosecutions and the increased presence of the police and council officers during the next Day of Action will serve to reassure the marine community, as well as visitors to the area, that we are committed to protecting public safety not only during the busy summer months, but all-year-round.”