Police have stepped up their efforts to crack down on illegal car meets.

Over recent weeks, officers have been made aware of illegal car meets in Macclesfield, Wilmslow and Alderley Edge.

Following these reports, Macclesfield Local Policing Unit has launched a new operation to help tackle the issue.

Chief Inspector Zoe Bowden, head of Macclesfield LPU, said: "I understand the frustration and anger that illegal car meets cause. This is an ongoing problem in the local area, and I want to reassure residents that we are committed to doing all we can to tackle the issue.

"We have a zero-tolerance approach and will take action against those who break the law.

"This could include vehicle seizures, penalty notices, notifying insurance companies, dispersal notices or arrest and prosecution where necessary.

"We'll also be actively working with our intelligence team to identify the organisers of such events, who could face the prospect of a criminal record.

"Our operation is not aimed at people meeting in their cars peacefully, simply those disrupting local communities and acting in an anti-social manner.

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"Our message is clear – anti-social behaviour and anti-social use of vehicles will not be tolerated."

Illegal car meets can attract hundreds of people, many in high powered motor vehicles driving dangerously causing excessive noise and anti-social behaviour, all of which have caused alarm and distress to residents.

In addition, many attendees park their vehicles on grass verges, roundabouts, pavements and block highways causing obstructions to enable drag strip style racing to take place.

If you have any concerns or information on any criminal activity taking place, please contact Cheshire Police on 101 or dial 999 if it is an emergency.