Cars seized in blitz on boy racers

A police crackdown on boy racers saw five cars seized and 20 fines issued to drivers gathered on the Burntwood bypass. The operation came in response to a stream of complaints.

Residents have voiced their concerns over boy racers causing a nuisance in the town, and operation saw several officers descending on the road on Sunday night to dish out fixed penalty notices of up to £60 to young motorists. Police seized five cars from drivers with no insurance, and issued fines for offences including not wearing seatbelts.

Other offences included driving while using a mobile phone, speeding, and driving without due care and attention.

Inspector Ashley Farrington, commander of Burntwood Neighbourhood Policing Unit, said: "The operation involved quite a number of officers and was carried out as a result of the concerns of people who live in the area about so-called boy racers.

"We are cracking down on irresponsible drivers who are causing a real danger to themselves, other drivers, pedestrians and cyclists.

"We're hoping these latest results will sent out a very clear message to such drivers that police will not tolerate it," he said.

Insp Farrington said similar operations would be carried out in the future, particularly at the Burntwood bypass.

Lichfield District Councillor Ken Humphries, ward councillor for Burntwood Central, welcomed the operation.

"We certainly have a problem in the area with these young drivers, it is unfortunate," he said.

"These young people must realise that cars are lethal weapons and are not to be played about with."

The cars that have been seized are being held by police until the owners can come forward and prove that they have the correct insurance. The owners will also have to shell out a release fee and cover storage costs.