Boy racers in Shropshire town could have cars seized

Police have stepped up patrols in Market Drayton.

Officers have warned young drivers they will seize cars and impose anti-social behaviour orders on those who are making the lives of local people a misery.

Market Drayton has a history of boy racers causing problems for residents living near the town's large car parks.

Constable Mick Sturland said police were aware of a minority who spoil it for the rest by driving erratically, doing wheel spins, "doughnuts" and generally showing off in Towers Lawn car park area.

He said: "There are two car parks here, one owned by Lidl and the other by Shropshire Council.

"Officers are targeting the anti-social aspect of their gathering by issuing warning notices under section 59 of the Police Reform Act 2002. This notice is issued where officers have witnessed poor, aggressive driving or anti-social driving. It can also be issued where members of the public have witnessed this behaviour.

"If the driver is seen acting in the same manner for a second time, their vehicle is seized. It then costs £150 to have it returned plus £20 per 24-hour storage. This is on top of any driving offences that may be committed. Most of the time, if the cars are stationary and the drivers' behaviour is good, officers cannot do anything except monitor them."

Constable Sturland said he was in talks with Shropshire Council to see if a barrier can be installed on the council-run car park.