DOZENS of watersports enthusiasts were warned about their speeds around the south Essex coastline.

Jet skiers and watersports enthusiasts are being warned to behave this summer after an increase in serious crashes.

A multi agency operation took place to begin tackling dangerous jet ski and boat activity.

Officers from Essex Police’s marine unit, the border force and Port of London Authority hosted a joint operation in Canvey, Benfleet, Leigh and Southend to ensure people remained safe.

Officers patrolled the south of the county’s waterways to enforce speed limits and help to reduce the number of dangerous incidents occurring on the water.

In recent weeks, a number of jet-skis have been involved in serious collisions and the authorities are now taking steps to enforce the speeding restrictions.

A total of 35 personal water craft and motor vessel users were warned about speeding or their behaviour and two have been reported to the Port of London Authority for speeding.

The operation comes after the Echo reported dangerous jet ski activity off the coast of Canvey last week and police are now urging the public to be vigilant.

A Port of London Authority spokesman said: “There is a persistent and irresponsible minority of jet ski users who are causing a problem and endangering others. Steps are being taken with Essex Police to increase enforcement at key locations. This will include an increased presence by police and Port of London Authority staff - on both land and water. In the meantime, anyone who sees irresponsible use of personal water craft should report it immediately to the Port of London Authority or to Essex Police. Photographs of the craft concerned – where possible – will assist us.” Call police on 101 quoting operation Kraken.