A pioneering scheme to stage official events for cruisers is a risk but the only way forward, police have admitted.
The first event, organised by cruiser groups, the police and Southend Council, will be held on November 13 and will see Marine Parade closed off as hundreds of cars descend on Southend.
It is hoped the gathering, which will be stewarded by the cruisers themselves, will drive away the minority of irresponsible drivers.
Southend police Supt Steve Currell, who is a self-confessed car enthusiast himself and owns two sports cars, admitted they were taking a chance with the event.
He said: "It is a risk but over the last 20 years lots of things have been tried to reduce the problem of hundreds of cars coming to the area.
"We now believe working in partnership with cruise organisers is the best way to promote responsible driving so people can show off their cars, enjoy them, but not endanger people here."
He added that knowing where and when an event would be would make it easier to police.
More in today's Evning Echo
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article