A pre-planned police operation to crack down on boy racers failed to prevent an accident which has left a 21-year-old fighting for his life.

The Met Police revealed today officers from Croydon and Sutton were involved in a pre-planned operation to deal with regular cruise meetings in Imperial Way on April 12 where a pedestrian was hit by an overturned car.

The pedestrian, believed to have been a spectator at the crusing event, was hurt during an accident involving four cars.

Police believe the accident took place after a Silver VW Golf overtook a Ford Sierra Cosworth, which was turning right into a parking space, clipping its side wing.

The VW Golf then collided head on with a parked black Subaru Impreza causing the Golf to overturn and hit a wall where the victim and a number of other people had gathered.

The victim was taken by ambulance to a south London hospital where his condition is described as critical.

This is the latest in a number of accidents during cruising events where car enthusiasts meet to show off their vehicles.

In May 2004 15-year-old Stefan Corson was killed after being hit by two cars at a cruising event.

And in August 2003, 20-year-old friends Raymond Ayers and Steve Dawson were killed while driving at a similar event in Purley Way.

Businesses along the Purley Way have also slammed the events saying they drive away custom and have blasted police for not doing enough to prevent them.

Last October saw an annual fun fair at the Colonnades Park, Purley Way, cancelled by organisers over concerns of the boy-racers' meetings.

Superintendent Chris Bourlet, of Croydon police, said: "We are fully aware and understand the real community concerns associated with this activity. In partnership with the local authority I would like to reassure the community we are continuing to address this problem and make the streets of Croydon safe for all.

"Over the past 12 months we have carried out a number of pre-planned police enforcement operations and more recently the Waddon Safer Neighbourhood team supported by the Broad Green and Beddington North team have been planning Operation Cheran a police operation aimed at addressing the criminal and antisocial use of motor vehicles in the coming summer months.

"Officers will be assisted by traffic police and will be using hand held speed cameras. Covert police tactics will also be used to disrupt and deal with the problems. Overall, the police will continue to use all available police powers and will work closely with the local authority to deal with those who disregard the law. In addition, the use of dispersal orders will be further considered and is an option for us to take as a short-term solution. In addition the local authority have agreed to revisit the issue of the installation of traffic calming measures to assist us with effectively designing out the problem."

Anyone with information about last Thursday's accident should call the Inspector Mark Eley, of the collision investigation unit, on 020 8285 1574, or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 if you wish to remain anonymous.

  • A 26-year-old man was arrested at the scene on suspicion of dangerous driving and bailed.