A van driver has been arrested on suspicion of five offences, including assault with intent to resist arrest, during Essex Police speed checks in Heybridge last week.

On Thursday 14 September, officers carried out 'Vision Zero patrols at The Causeway, Heybridge, focussing on speeding.

A 39-year-old man from Chelmsford failed, twice, to stop his van when directed by officers conducting checks. The van was then driven towards an officer, connecting with his leg, before driving away.

Adam Pipe, Head of Roads Policing, said: "Thankfully, our officer, a volunteer who gives up his time to ensure the safety of others, wasn't seriously injured."

Following a vehicle pursuit, officers quickly stopped the vehicle on the A414 where the driver resisted arrest as officers placed him in handcuffs.

Police say the van he was driving was in a dangerous condition with bald tyres. Officers searched the vehicle and found two "bats".

The driver was arrested on suspicion of failing to stop for police, common assault of an emergency worker, dangerous driving, assault with intent to resist arrest and possession of an offensive weapon. He has been released on bail until December 6 while the investigation continues.

"As part of the Safer Essex Roads Partnership, Roads Policing officers work with partners to tackle traffic-related matters that affect the safety of our roads," Mr Pipe added.

"Vision Zero days are held across the county as part of our ambition to reduce the number of deaths on our roads and we will continue to carry out this important work to keep roads in Essex safe for all our road users.

"We won't tolerate our roads being used for criminality or moving around the county, carrying out crime."

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