Speedboat and personal watercraft users are being warned by a Shropshire river bailiff they could lose their vessels if they break the law.

John Roberts, chairman and head bailiff for the Shropshire Anglers Federation, said he has looked through the statute books after anglers complained about speeding vessels making life a misery for residents and fishermen.

He said he had informed Shropshire Council in case it happens again.

“Under the Criminal Justice Act, anyone involved in disrupting legal pursuits with illegal pursuits can have their vessel and trailer seized,” he added.

“This year on two occasions we’ve had jet skis going along at 25mph along the River Severn by Sydney Avenue.

“The whole neighbourhood is up in arms about the noise.”

Mr Roberts said other river laws had also been flouted with people in The Quarry spotting people fishing from boats, which Mr Roberts said is illegal under Shrewsbury bylaw.

He said the problem with speeding had been noticed by dog walkers, anglers and residents.

This week, Councillor Miles Kenny, Shropshire Council ward member for Underdale, issued a plea to anyone who sees people speeding in their boats to report it. It comes amid concerns some personal watercraft users are also taking to the river as they clean their vessels of sea water.

Councillor Kenny said speeding eroded the river bank and was anti-social as it disrupted the peace.

Chris Edwards, from Shropshire Council, said: “It is important for people with boats to adhere to the 8mph speed limit on the River Severn.”

By Emma Kasprzak