Police in Honiton will be using all the tools at its disposal to deal with this problem.

THE newest member of Honiton neighbourhood policing team is going to be taking a tough stance on anti-social driving.

PC Mark Carnall says police in Honiton will be using all of the tools at its disposal to deal with this increasing problem.

He said: “I would like to make it clear that the police will act on these reports using the tools that the law affords us, such as the road traffic act and the police reform act, which can result in the vehicle being seized and taken off the road.

“I will also be looking for local business and residents to assist us and, with that in mind, have already arranged a local business to work with us to resolve a particular problem.”

He added: “The very act of driving anti-socially not only puts the driver at risk, but also those members of the public using the highway around them.

“It affects the quality of life of residents living in the area. This is unacceptable and should not have to be tolerated.

“I acknowledge people like to drive, but when the manner of that driving impacts on others around them, then I will be taking action to resolve the situation and educate those carrying it out.”

Section 59 of the Police Reform Act allows officers to seize a vehicle if it is, or has been, driven carelessly or off road in a manner that causes, or is likely to cause, a member of the public alarm or distress.

The issue of anti-social driving has been a particular problem in the Tesco car park.

He said: “We have already used this legislation several times in Honiton and it has previously seen a reduction in anti-social driving.

“If the situation fits, we will have no hesitation in using it again, but I hope that it will prove unnecessary and people will consider others when driving.”