Seafront cruisers were today being reminded their cars can now be seized under new police powers if they use roads as race tracks.

The measures, introduced yesterday, give police the right to seize cars and motorbikes being driven off-road - or in a way which causes alarm and distress.

Essex Police say they have every intention of using them at the earliest opportunity.

A spokesman said: "The new laws will help support initiatives we already have in place.

"Those motorists who persistently drive in a reckless or dangerous manner should be aware officers from road policing units and divisional police stations will do everything to ensure fewer people are killed or injured on our roads.

"In addition, we are mindful housing estate areas are used as race tracks."

Owners are likely to have to pay up to £357 to retrieve vehicles impounded over traffic law violations.

Published Thursday, January 2, 2003

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