Police break up car meet at Beckett’s Farm after excessive speed and heavy traffic on the A435

OFFICERS from West Mercia Operational Policing Unit (OPU) dispersed a meeting at Beckett’s Farm on Saturday evening following concerns about excessive speed and heavy traffic on the A435 and junction three of the M42.

Safer Neighbourhood Insp for Bromsgrove Lisa Hornberger said: “We recognise that car meets remain popular with motoring enthusiasts and we support those who gather responsibly. However, we must balance the interests of attendees with those of residents.

“While most people attend these events to socialise, the actions of a minority, including speeding, noisy exhausts and anti-social driving, can cause significant disruption and impact the quality of life of those living nearby.”

Police are taking steps to reassure communities in Worcestershire that plans are already in motion to tackle car cruising meets.

Car cruises are where drivers meet on public roads to race or show off their vehicles. A minority of these drivers sometimes perform dangerous stunts and drive at excessive speed and in an antisocial manner.

Such cruises can also attract large crowds who are mainly well-behaved though they risk being injured by those cars driving dangerously and a minority may commit ASB.

Insp Hornberger added: “Please be assured that our OPU team is ready to take action against anyone breaking the law through dangerous driving, speeding or ASB

“I would encourage anyone who witnesses street racing or dangerous driving to submit footage via our Op Snap portal, and to report ASB through our online reporting system.”