Rogue drivers could have their cars towed away

This week, Inspector Max Mosley warned that police in Bexhill will be making use of the new powers as soon as a contract is agreed for the tow-away process.

The new move comes only days after a police and traffic warden blitz on illegally parked car resulted in 102 tickets being issued.

Inspector Mosley said: "Careless and inconsiderate driving" is an offence under the 1991 Road Traffic Act which can result in the driver suffering between three and nine licence penalty points, a fine of up to 2,500 and possible disqualification."

But this is dependant on police obtaining a conviction in court.

Now the Police Reform Act 2002, which came into effect at the start of the year, gives police authority to stop drivers and seize cars or motorcycles on the spot if they feel the vehicle is being driven in a manner likely to cause "alarm, distress or annoyance to members of the public."

Police may use reasonable force, if necessary, to arrange for the vehicle to be towed away and impounded.

Owners will have to fork out 105 for their vehicle's release - plus a 12-a-day charge for it to be kept in a pound.

If not paid in 21 days - that is at a cost of 357 - the vehicle can be auctioned off.