Reckless drivers are organising race nights on the A127 between Basildon and Southend with speeds reaching up to 140mph.
Fanatical crowds of more than 100 people have been gathering on grass verges near the Dick Turpin pub, on the Arterial Road, Wickford, to watch the events.
Souped-up cars mix with classic vehicles in high-speed chases, while motorbikers perform tricks like wheelies at speeds of up to 80mph.
To combat the problem police have launched a covert traffic campaign aimed at catching the "mindless" motorists.
Adam Pipe, Senior Traffic Management Officer for Essex Police, said: "As the summer months approach this problem returns and we've noticed the races have begun again in the last couple of weeks."
Published Monday May 31, 2004
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