A MAN has been sentenced for speeding at almost four times the water speed limit near an Essex harbour.

Mark Halliwell was stopped by Essex Police Marine Unit officers on one of their regular Operation Wave-Breaker patrols near Brightlingsea harbour.

He was convicted of exceeding the 8-knot speed limit in force in that part of the River Colne.

Colchester Council administers the River Colne byelaws and brought the prosecution on September 19.

Caught - Essex Police Marine Unit officers were on one of their regular Operation Wave-Breaker patrols near Brightlingsea harbour. Caught - Essex Police Marine Unit officers were on one of their regular Operation Wave-Breaker patrols near Brightlingsea harbour. (Image: Essex Police) Sergeant Alex Southgate said after the hearing at Chelmsford Magistrates’ Court: “Halliwell had accelerated hard from the beach area on a personal watercraft and was travelling at approximately 30 knots, which is almost four times the 8-knot speed limit there.

“Our Operation Wave-Breaker patrols are designed to protect water users in areas which have historically experienced water-based anti-social behaviour and where people have ignored the local byelaws.

“Wherever possible, we seek to educate members of the public about the possible consequences of speeding on the water and the dangers to people and wildlife that can pose.

“However, in this instance, Halliwell’s speed left us no option but to report him for breaking the local speed limit.”

Halliwell, of Paxfords, Basildon, pleaded guilty by post to the offence, committed on 10 May 2024.

He was fined £80 with £150 court costs and also ordered to pay a £32 victim surcharge.

Find out more about the work of the Essex Police Marine Unit by visiting www.essex.police.uk/marine, where you can also find specialised crime prevention advice.