Boy racers are being warned they could have their vehicles seized after reports of a south Essex woodland being used as a racetrack.

Essex Police has received reports of several quad bikes using at Gusted Hall Woods, in Hockley, as a racetrack over the past week.

They have warned this is dangerous as wildlife, dog walkers and horse riders frequent the woods.

A spokesman for Essex Police in Rochford said: "Over the past week, it has been reported that several quad bikes are using Gusted Hall Woods as a racetrack.

"This is both unacceptable and dangerous as our woods are frequented by wildlife, walkers, dog walkers, horse riders and alike."

Essex Police has a power under Section 59 of the Police Reform Act 2002 to seize and remove a vehicle if it is seen driving or riding in an antisocial manner or causing annoyance to the community.

The spokesman added: "Whilst we are aware and will be directing our patrols, we would appreciate contact from anyone who has footage of quad bikes entering our wooded areas.

"This can be emailed to warren.lamb@essex.police.uk."

Information can also be given to independent charity Crimestoppers completely anonymously via crimestoppers-uk.org or on 0800 555 111.