A jetski rider has been fined for speeding at almost four times the water speed limit just outside Brightlingsea harbour.
Mark Halliwell was stopped by Essex Police marine unit officers on one of their regular Operation Wave-Breaker patrols, which aim to deter anti-social behaviour. He was convicted of exceeding the 8-knot speed limit in force in that part of the River Colne.
Sergeant Alex Southgate said after the hearing at Chelmsford Magistrates’ Court: “Halliwell had accelerated hard from the beach area on a personal watercraft and was travelling at approximately 30 knots, which is almost four times the 8-knot speed limit there.”
He added: “Wherever possible, we seek to educate members of the public about the possible consequences of speeding on the water and the dangers to people and wildlife that can pose. However, in this instance, Halliwell’s speed left us no option but to report him for breaking the local speed limit.”
Colchester City Council administers the River Colne byelaws and brought the prosecution on September 19. Halliwell, of Paxfords, Basildon, pleaded guilty by post to the offence, committed on May 10, 2024. He was fined £80 with £150 court costs and also ordered to pay a £32 victim surcharge.
(Article supplied by Essex Police)
