PATROLS on bridges over the A12 are being stepped up by police after a series of rock throwing incidents.

Officers from Essex Police are increasing their presence on bridges along the busy dual carriageway in a bid to prevent items being chucked down by yobs onto cars hurtling past.

This follows two incidents on December 1 last year which left a woman in a critical condition in hospital.

Rural and residential streets will also be patrolled by officers while the Highways Agency will put up signs along the road giving drivers information about precise locations if they need to report an incident.

Chief Supt Simon Williams, head of Essex Police’s Operational Policing Command, said: “Essex Police treat incidents of missiles being thrown from bridges on to the road as extremely serious.

“The consequences of such an act put road users in danger of serious injury as well as significant delays on the roads.

“In order to combat those who wish to put others in danger, Essex Police will be deploying additional patrols to those areas that have experienced this type of incident previously and will prosecute anybody identified as responsible.”

Anyone who sees a bridge crime or has information about either incident on December 1 last year is urged to call 999 or 101.