Noisy ‘boy racers’ are causing a problem in Budleigh Salterton, and residents are being urged to report the incidents to the police.

Local councillor Henry Riddell has received several complaints from residents concerned about anti-social driving in Lime Kiln car park late at night, often lasting until 3am. Residents have also reported seeing drivers – not necessarily the same ones – speeding through the town centre, putting pedestrians and other road users at risk.

Cllr Riddell (Conservative), who represents the Budleigh and Raleigh ward on East Devon District Council, has written to Devon and Cornwall Police asking if patrols could be increased around the Lime Kiln car park during the late evening and early morning hours to deter the troublemakers.

In his letter to the force he said: “The impact of this anti-social driving is not only disrupting the peace of the area but is also severely affecting the well-being and sleep of the residents.

“The loud noise generated by these activities is seriously impacting their health and exacerbating an already challenging situation.

“Furthermore, the issue extends beyond the car park, as the drivers involved are reportedly racing around the town and engaging in dangerous driving behaviours in the high street. This poses a significant risk to both pedestrians and other road users, raising concerns about public safety.

“I understand that the police work hard to maintain law and order in our community, and I appreciate your commitment to ensuring the safety of our residents. I also can appreciate the pressure that the police are under. I would like to request your assistance in addressing this issue promptly.”

Cllr Riddell stressed the importance of residents using the police’s 101 system to report cases of antisocial driving, so that the force has a record of multiple incidents and can justify deploying resources to the area. But he is not ruling out action by the district council, such as restricting access to the car park at certain times – although he knows this would bring its own problems.

He told the Journal:  “I am sure a bit more of a police presence and catching one or two incidents will resolve the matter. If the situation is not getting any better I will review and look at what EDDC can do to alleviate the issues.”