ESSEX Police officers drew a blank when they targeted an anti-social group of young bikers in Stanford and Corringham.

Local residents have been complained for a number of weeks about the growing menace of young people riding bikes and scooter on pavements and driving dangerously and in a threatening manner.

Yesterday (Wednesday, 30 January), local police announced they would be on patrol in the towns under theirs 'Operation Rambler' project.

However, today officers reported they had not spotted any problems despite a five hour patrol.

A statement from the force says: "Op Rambler is an ongoing countywide operation to respond to anti-social behaviour. Last night they went out to Stanford and Corringham to respond to reports of the anti-social use of mopeds and bikes in the afternoon.

"They patrolled for around five hours, but received no additional reports of this behaviour during this time.

"No arrests were made, but we are working to try and identify those who have been causing ASB in the area. Anyone with info is asked to call 101 or report anonymously through Crimestoppers."