ANTI-speeding campaigners are stepping up their efforts across Tendring, with new groups about to be formed across the district.

This year, volunteers in hi-vis vests and carrying speed radar gun shave caught more than 500 speeding motorists in Frinton, Walton, Kirby and Great Holland.

Now, such patrols look set to start in Clacton, Jaywick, Weeley and Great Bentley.

They could also be increased to one a week, instead of every 2-3 weeks as at present.

Community Speedwatch co-ordinator Mick Carter told Frinton and Walton Town Council last week that at his group’s last outing on Saturday September 17, some 70 motorists were reported to Essex Police after being caught speeding in Elm Tree Avenue and Kirby Road.

Around ten volunteers, trained by PCSOs, join the patrols, who record every motorist driving above 37mph, or driving without a seatbelt or using a mobile phone whilst driving.

Their details are then sent to Essex Police, who write to the offending motorists, warning of the risks they face.

Mr Carter said his campaigns, which have seen drivers exceed 60mph in 30mph zones, have led to police to send officers on patrol with them. Such officers can then issue £60 fixed penalty notices to offenders, but the greater cost is the impact of three penalty points on the motorist’s insurance bills.

“I have had enquiries from people wanting to join Speed Watch from Clacton, Great Bentley and Jaywick. With a bit of luck, they will be sprouting all over the place,” he told the Thursday meeting.

This week, Mr Carter told the Gazette that Essex Highways Road Safety Department has contacted him to say it will help roll-out speed watch groups across the county.

New road surface materials from resurfaced roads care causing more road nose, especially from speeding vehicles, leading to more complaints from residents of speeding vehicles, he added.

Anyone wanting to join Speed Watch can ring Mick Carter on 07702 862572.