MOTORCYCLISTS have been accused of putting children at risk by tearing through Southend’s streets – and even a children’s playground.

Dozens of residents around Whittingham Avenue have been calling police to report two men on motorbikes racing up and down roads and across Bournes Green playing fields almost every day.

The riders even tore through a playground filled with young children.

Police are investigating and say they are trying to identify the riders.

John Boatwright of Whittingham Avenue, Southend, said: “These two men have been riding like maniacs for more than a week.

“They tear up the road, turn and then tear back down again.

Then they race across the playing fields. I’ve seen them ride through a playground while small children are there playing in it.

“We’ve called the police twice and they said they’d had lots of calls about it.

”These men will hurt someone, or worse, before long. It’s ridiculous.”

David Garston, borough councillor for Southchurch ward, said: “I understand letters have been sent to James Duddridge MP and to all the ward councillors about this.

“I have referred the matter to South Essex Homes, which runs the estate so I’m ho[ping it will be doing what it can. As councillors, we are doing all we can.”

Police have confirmed they are investigating several reports of nuisance motor bike and quad bike offences in the Whittingham Avenue and Sherwood Way area.

Sgt Tracey Butt said officers had gone to the area and were making inquiries.

She added: “We appreciate local residents are concerned about this and are making inquiries to find and prosecute those responsible.

“People persistently riding motor bikes or quad bikes in a dangerous and illegal way is unacceptable and we would ask residents to continue to work with us, by contacting us on 101 if they have any information.

“This matter will be raised at the local community meeting, to be held at St Augustine’s Church at 7pm on Monday, October 12, when residents are welcome to attend.”

A spokesman for South Essex Homes said: “We are working with the police and will investigate any youth and noise nuisance.

“We will take action where it is needed and would encourage residents to report any antisocial behaviour they experience on our 24-hour freephone number, 0800 833163.