POLICE are hunting for this dangerous jet-ski rider who was caught on camera speeding in shallow water at 35mph just yards from children on a canoeing lesson.
In the CCTV footage, the rider can be seen hurtling at about 30 knots near a beach and moored yachts on the River Blackwater, near Maldon – more than threes time the eight knot speed limit.
And at one point, the jet-ski passed between a man in waist deep water and a class of children he was teaching to canoe, close to the Marconi Sailing Club.
Investigating officer, Sgt Paul Rawson, said: "There is a speed limit of 8 knots in this area and it is in place to stop this sort of dangerous behaviour.
"People swim from that beach, young people learn to sail in small dinghies and there are small dinghies manoeuvring. It is no place for a high powered Personal Water Craft travelling at about 35mph."
The jet-ski was first seen on Saturday, June 7, at about 6.41pm travelling towards Bradwell and then again at 6.59pm going back upstream.
Now police are urging river users to follow the laws or face hefty fines of up to £1,000.
"We had a near-fatal accident off Clacton several years ago when an inexperienced PWC rider struck another and smashed the other rider's cheekbones and eye socket," added Sgt Rawson.
"We also carried out an operation last year on the River Colne where eight people were prosecuted for similar offences. Fines ranging between £750 and £1,000 were given out by local courts.
"These offences are always prosecuted by the local water bailiff in this area, who works for Maldon Council. They are civil rather than criminal offences, however, we assist the local council by investigating the offences on their behalf and provide them with the evidence to enable them to prosecute the offenders.
"If we can identify the person on the PWC in the pictures we will make every effort to bring a prosecution under the local bylaws.
"We would urge water users to research the local water bylaws and to stick to the rules that are in place to protect others.
"The Essex coastline has a speed limit of 8 knots/10 mph that is generally from the beach to 250 yards out, although this does differ slightly depending on the area.
"Beyond that distance users can increase speed, however disrespectful users like to show off often in areas where swimmers are.
"Please use your craft in a responsible manner, always abide by the bylaws, wear correct safety equipment such as kill cords and always carry means of contact such as flares, mobile phones and radios."
Anyone who knows the identity of the jet-ski rider or has information of dangerous activity elsewhere is urged to call the Essex Police Marine Unit on 101 or 999 in an emergency.
