Dozens of motorists were caught speeding in south Essex as police targeted bad driving.

Officers were out along with members of the Safer Essex Roads partnership in Basildon yesterday morning as part of the Surround a Town operation.

At least 40 drivers were reported for offences during the day, with the most common offence being speeding.

16 motorists were reported for speeding on London Road between Pitsea and South Benfleet.

Officers said on Twitter many of them had been caught speeding near a primary school.

A further 23 drivers were reported as the day went on and the teams moved to different parts of Basildon.

One driver was caught going at 73mph on the A1235, where the speed limit is 40mph.

Elsewhere, special constables were out in Southend and Leigh late last night, where they also caught motorists breaking the law.

A total of 10 drivers were reported for speeding or not wearing a seat belt.

Officers were targeting Marine Parade and Kings Road, and reported one driver who was doing 47mph in a 30mph zone.