Police believe the Lotus appeals more to boy racers

The Lotus, with a top speed of 140mph, has been loaned to officers in Hastings and is decorated in police colours.

However, it is not an operational police car, and is unable to get involved in high speed chases.

Sussex Police said its role was purely educational, and they hope it will cut the number of road accidents involving drivers aged between 17 and 25.

Sgt Paul Masterson said: "The idea is they [the drivers] come to us and come and have a chat.

"We generally turn up at events where youngsters hang out... with this vehicle they actually come over and want to talk to us.