Residents in Clacton have claimed they were at their wits' end and begged for help to save them from the "neighbour from hell".

They told how they have called on every possible authority - including writing to the Chief Constable of Essex - but have been unable to solve the problems created by their neighbour at Valley Road.

Stock car racer Darren Jones has had up to nine cars at his home at any one time, which he works on until 10pm at night.

But he cannot see the problem and feels the residents are being unreasonable.

"I don't deny that I make a lot of noise but it's only two nights a week and the odd day - we're always finished by 10pm," he said.

The residents have formed a committee to try to come up with ideas of how to put an end to the misery which they say is affecting their health.

Peter Blackman, who lives at number 58, said: "It has been going on for three years or more and it's like living near a breaker's yard. He's out there welding, banging, drilling, burning piles of tyres at all hours."

Another woman, who did not want to be named, said: "He is the neighbour from hell - you cannot enjoy your own home."

Mr Blackman said cars were often pushed out on to Valley Road, despite the house being right at the junction with Burrs Road and a mini roundabout.

He added: "Sooner or later there will be an accident there and I wonder if it will take someone being killed before the authorities act."

Residents desperate to move complain of being unable to sell their homes.

The committee has gathered video evidence of the activity and Tendring councillors have agreed to take enforcement action in a bid to reduce the nuisance.

They are trying to limit the number of vehicles to two and also want Mr Jones to stop stationing a coach, car transporter or any other commercial vehicle there within a month from the notice taking effect.

And they have empowered the council's solicitor to take such legal action as is necessary to make Mr Jones comply.

Tom Cook (Lab, St Marys), who met with the residents, said: "We must stop this as quickly as we can as it's a flaming nuisance."

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