Police reinforce message about Willingham Woods meet

That is the message from Sgt Pearson of the Market Rasen policing team to motorists and riders who will be visiting Willingham Woods this Saturday evening, August 22, for a static meet - and police will be there too.

These events attract many car drivers and motorcyclists who want to enjoy a meet and police say they are happy to engage and talk about road and vehicle safety along with the best of them.

A police spokesman said: “Unfortunately these events also attract drivers and riders who want to spoil the events by showing off, acting in an anti-social manner and generally letting the side down.

“Our communities suffer with inconsiderate driving and riding and disruption from vehicles on their way to the meet.

“Also people who wish to use the woods and cafe for separate reasons have reported finding it an intimidating experience.”

Officers will be joined by the Lincolnshire Road Safety camera team to police the roads and will take action where necessary.

Their drone team will be assisting too with their eyes in the sky at Willingham Woods.

They will be expecting everyone present to respect social distancing, drive or ride in a safe and legal way.

The spokesman added: “The roads in the area are busy with coastal traffic; it’s harvest season, so drivers and riders can expect to see farm vehicles on the roads too.

“We want this event to be safe and will be enforcing where we see anti-social behaviour, including driving or riding.

“We have powers under the Police Reform Act to issue S59 notices which could lead to vehicles being seized. If necessary we will also consider using dispersal notices to tackle anti-social behaviour.

“Where we see vehicles obstructing the highway, racing or generally showing off in vehicles and committing road traffic offences, we will take action to keep everyone safe.

“Our drone is really useful for recording evidence of these offences.”

Sgt Pearsonadded: “I’m on duty with colleagues from our Roads Police Department, our drone officers and with the safety camera teams.

“Be mindful of other traffic and especially agricultural vehicles which move slowly and often are turning into field entrances.”