POLICE in Braintree are appealing to residents to drive safe during the ongoing heatwave following the tragic deaths of three people last weekend.

Essex Police are asking people to 'think about their own safety and the safety of all other road users' in the current weather.

The police say they're are aware many drivers will be taking to roads to in the hot weather to travel to beauty spots, beaches and to visit relatives.

However, just last week three people died on the roads and now the police are calling for vigilance.

Incidents in Earls Colne and on the A120 Coggeshall bypass saw two men lose their lives - both just 19-years-old.

Chief Supt Glen Pavelin said: “The investigations in to the circumstances of the collisions last weekend remain ongoing so it would be wrong for me to suggest the causes, however I would like to appeal to anyone driving a vehicle or riding a motorcycle to do so thinking about their own safety and the safety of all other road users.

“We will have officers out on the county’s roads this weekend, both to keep people safe and prevent and detect crime.

“Please do not drive under the influence of drink or drugs.

"Please do not drive in excess of the speed limits – they are in place for a reason.

"Enjoy your weekend whatever you chose to do but please make sure you do so safely.”