Residents plagued by '400 cars' before race ban

A police officer said he had witnessed dangerous driving at the events

Residents were plagued by street-racing meets of up to 400 cars before a ban on the practice, according to a police officer.

PC Mark Campbell said he witnessed a huge number of vehicles at "cruises" in locations across the Black Country.

Motorists had been seen driving erratically near the Black Country Route in Bilston, Wolverhampton, and Manor Way in Halesowen.

A ban on street racing across Birmingham and the Black Country was granted by judges this week, giving officers extra powers to crack down on drivers, riders and passengers.

PC Campbell said so-called street cruisers had mounted central reservations and driven along footpaths.

Some cars were seen travelling the wrong way down a dual carriageway and into oncoming vehicles, the officer added.

"It is only a matter of time before the high speed driving involved in organised races leads to another multiple fatality incident," PC Campbell said.

"The price paid by communities is incalculable - they are exposed to a high level of harm, noise, intimidation, disruption and threats."

Police and councils say the ban is vital to keep people safe

A full three-year injunction is now in place for five local authorities until 27 February 2027.

The order prohibits drivers, riders or passengers participating in racing anywhere in Birmingham, Wolverhampton, Dudley, Sandwell and Walsall.

A number of arrests have been made under temporary bans.

Judges ordered a ban on the practice

Birmingham applied for its own injunction while a separate ban was introduced for the other four councils.

Any driver or rider or passenger breaching the order could be arrested immediately.

They then face up to two years in prison, a fine, or having their assets seized.