A dispersal order will be in place over the weekend to tackle boy racers after a rise in reports of dangerous driving and nuisance vehicles.

It will be enforced by police on certain roads near Sittingbourne and on Sheppey from 7pm today (May 19) until 7pm on Sunday, May 21.

The enforcement includes Ridham Dock, Sheppey Way, Old Ferry Road, Swale Way, Barge Way, Neats Court Retail Park, Rushenden and Rushenden Marshes.

The dispersal order is due to an increase in reports of nuisance vehicles and in some cases dangerous driving at weekends.

It allows officers to stop anyone involved in anti-social behaviour and move them on.

The area has had previous dispersal orders enforced after instances of gatherings of up to 50 vehicles, where drivers were reportedly driving at high speeds and disturbing residents in the early hours.

Inspector Ryan Chase, of the Swale Community Safety Unit, said: “Residents and visitors to the area have reported concerns about the dangers posed to other road users and the impact on the quality of life of the local community.

“The order gives our officers additional powers to require anyone causing a nuisance to leave the area and, if necessary, arrest those who return once dispersed.

“Those who persist in this behaviour also risk having their vehicles seized.”

Anybody who wishes to report instances of antisocial behaviour should report it online via the police website by clicking here.

Alternatively, call 999 if it is an emergency, or 101. To remain anonymous, call CrimeStoppers on 0800 555111.