A LONG-STANDING campaign to rid an estate in South Woodford from learner drivers practising their manoeuvres has been stepped up by a disgruntled resident.

The Firs Estate, around The Drive and Broadwalk, suffers constantly from dozens of learner drivers doing three point turns, driving over junctions without stopping and practising their general driving skills nearly everyday.

Edward Blackwell, of Broadwalk, began his campaign nearly two years ago sending letters to Wanstead and Leyton MP Harry Cohen, Redbridge councillors, and even the Prime Minister Tony Blair.

Mr Blackwell has since stepped up his campaign. He said: "I have been monitoring the situation constantly and have now been video-taping the endless stream of learner drivers. Sometimes they completely flood the estate.".

Anxious for some speedy intervention, Mr Blackwell has now sent video tapes to the people he first contacted with letters.

Scotland Yard has now told Mr Blackwell that they have forwarded their copy of his tape to the Chief Superintendent of Ilford police requesting that they monitor the situation.

He added:"I have since had a visit from the police. They checked over the area and told me they would make a file and look into the problem."

Mr Blackwell is keeping on top of the situation and is now compiling another video to send off.

July 8, 2002 17:30