Have-a-go hero Andrew Maude didn't think twice before dashing in to grab a man fleeing from a crashed stolen car.

Daytrippers enjoying the sunshine in Southend had a lucky escape as the BMW convertible sports car sped past them and dodged police cars before smashing headlong into dustbins on Sunday evening.

All four occupants then fled.

However, they didn't reckon on the persistence of 28-year-old Mr Maude of Trinity Road, Southend.

He said: "I heard screeching and saw the car as it careered out of control.

"The driver must be a maniac because the seafront was mobbed. Someone could so easily have been killed."

Instead of stepping aside Mr Maude chased after the occupants of the car as they fled from the wreckage in Chalkwell Esplanade.

He said: "I saw them running along the beach with police hot on their heels and decided to do my bit to stop them.

"I just knew I had to do my best to stop them."

Mr Maude successfully grabbed one of the men and grappled him to the floor. Police officers took over when they caught up. Mr Maude was today praised for his efforts.

Another three men were shortly arrested after a search by the Essex Police helicopter.

All four were yesterday still in custody at Southend police station helping police with their inquiries.

Witnesses should call Det Con Graham Warbouys at Rayleigh Traffic on 01268 775533.

Determined - have-a-go-hero Andrew Maude

Picture: STEPHEN LLOYD

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