Those planning on taking part in an unauthorised bike ride-out this Halloween are being told to stay out of Essex.

Essex Police is working with The Metropolitan Police Service and neighbouring county forces on a planned operation to deal with any disruption caused by anti-social behaviour carried out by large groups of people on bikes over the Halloween period.

Many individuals who take part in the ride outs are linked to the group ‘UK Bike Life’.

Last year pockets of between 75 and 300 bikes and quadbikes were at various locations including Grays, Aveley, Tilbury, Corringham, Brentwood and Basildon.

There were a number of arrests made by officers after some riders caused disruption on our roads and high streets.

There were reports of reckless riding, criminal damage, riders on pavements, and letting off fire extinguishers at members of the public.

Officers successfully used a range of tactics, including stinger devices and seizing vehicles.

The operation is not aimed at law-abiding motorcyclists and police want to reassure our communities that we will deal with anyone coming into the county over the Halloween period to cause disorder.

Chief Superintendent Andy Mariner said: “In and around the Halloween period, like any force in the country, we prepare for some challenges.

“Generally, there are small pockets of people who use the occasion as an excuse to act anti-socially.

“That’s of course unacceptable and we are equipped to deal with that minority.

“We are also prepared for situations where people may be actively seeking to cause disorder on the roads and streets of our county, in the form of an unauthorised ride out.

“We are aware that a ride out is planned again for this Halloween period and our message is clear – they are not welcome in Essex.

“Last year, some individuals caused criminal damage to businesses, they deliberately rode dangerously on major roads and intimidated members of the public with anti-social behaviour.

“We have already issued warning notices to certain individuals in Essex who may be planning to take part in this.

“We are fully prepared to use our powers to robustly deal with anyone intent on causing harm in Essex over the Halloween period.”

The force is working with The Met, Kent, Hertfordshire, Thames Valley, Surrey and Sussex Police.