Fed-up East Enders yesterday demanded a police crackdown on “inconsiderate” drivers who block public roads outside a cricket club when big games are played.

Albert Fox, a Cashew City Road resident for 66 years, warned spectators at St David’s Cricket Club for the Eastern Counties final tomorrow not to park illegally.

He said: “I’ve been the longest in the neighbourhood. I turn 69 this year and I’ve seen this community grow.

“We have old homes here. If a place catches fire and the truck can’t get through, somebody will lose their house. That’s crazy.”

Mr Fox added: “It’s gotten out of hand. We have been very tolerant; this is the first time I can remember complaining.”

He said: “Someone has to take the bull by the horns, before we have a major problem.”

Mr Fox added County Cup games were “the biggest thing next to Cup Match, when the game is in St David’s”.

“They used to leave us enough room, but now, there is no consideration for the neighbours.

“If there is a need for an ambulance or a fire truck, you can’t get through.”

Mr Fox estimated that 75 per cent of area residents had signed a petition of complaint handed in to police earlier this month.

He said: “The last game, with Cleveland County two weeks ago, the police did assist by issuing parking tickets.”

The frustrated minibus driver added he had found his own driveway blocked in the past and that cones put out by residents, had been moved.

Mr Fox predicted a big turnout for the weekend match, when St David’s will take on Flatts.

He said: “People want to park wherever they want, close to the game, and inconvenience others folks.”

Mr Fox pledged: “I will do what I have to do, to raise awareness. This time, people are going to have to find other places to park and walk to the game.”

A police spokesman said last night: “There were tickets issued at the last Eastern Counties cricket competition at St David’s Cricket Club, in response to area residents’ concerns.

“This was an initiative by the BPS, in partnership with the Eastern County Cricket Association. The same is likely this weekend, if vehicles are found illegally parked.”