POLICE have authorised a dispersal order for The Manorway in Corringham this weekend following concerns that a horse trotting event may take place.

The order, which falls under section 35 of the Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act, covers the A1014 The Manorway from its junction with the A13 Stanford-le-Hope interchange eastwards for a distance of around four miles up to and including the roundabout at Fleet Street, Coryton.

Under the order, it will be a criminal offence if people do not leave when told to by police officers if they are causing anti-social behaviour, causing members of the public to feel harassed, alarmed or distressed.

The event, dubbed King of the Road, is due to take place on Saturday, July 30 and Sunday, July 31.

Previous events have seen up to 200 people congregating and causing nuisance and disruption. Local residents are concerned and HGV drivers using the road to access the local businesses in the area suffer problems due to the unauthorised road closures by the race organisers and spectators.

Chief Inspector Leigh Norris, Divisional Commander for Thurrock, said: "This dispersal order will be in place from 6am on Saturday morning until midnight on Sunday.

"We will not tolerate this sort of activity in the area because it is dangerous for road users and animals taking part.

"Residents are also concerned.

"My officers and those from other specialist teams will be patrolling the area and will be enforcing the powers granted under the dispersal order as well as dealing positively with any Road Traffic Act or other offences being committed.”

Thurrock Council has been working in partnership with Essex Police.

Rob Gledhill, leader of Thurrock Council said: "Thurrock Council is pleased to be working closely with Essex Police regarding to the unauthorised encampment in Corringham.

"With the weekend coming up, and after reports of possible illegal racing, I’m pleased to hear that a dispersal order has been issued for this weekend.

"It goes to show that when we work together, we can achieve great results.”