A DISABLED man and a dog walker have told how they were nearly knocked down by a speeding van driven by a boy “no older than 13”.

Ted Harman, pictured right, said three children in the van “jeered and laughed” as they screeched past him on the dirt track, designed for pedestrians, on Stanmer Park.

The 73-year-old, of Beatty Avenue, Coldean, said: “I was scared for my life. I have to use a mobility scooter to get around because I have a lung disease caused by asbestos.

“I get short of breath and can’t breathe if I walk. I had to swerve out of the way but I could have been seriously injured if they had knocked me down. I visit the park everyday and this area is meant for walkers, not cars.”

Jo Maynard, a professional dog walker, said the reckless drivers swore at her and did not stop as the van clipped one of the dogs she was walking. The 36-year-old, who lives near Queen’s Park, Brighton, said: “I had to leap out of the way when they sped past.

“They were driving at about 40 miles an hour. There were three boys in the van no older than 13, they came flying around the corner and missed me by inches.

“But they hit my client’s dog. Thankfully he wasn’t hurt but he did yelp.

“They are actually putting people’s lives in danger. I’m definitely going to be avoiding the park until they’ve gone. It’s not safe.”

Sussex Police said it had received reports of the incidents and are investigating.

PCSO Darren Penter said: “We have received calls about erratic driving on Wednesday and Thursday and have increased patrols in the park.

“We are talking to travellers and residents.” A spokeswoman for Brighton and Hove City Council, said: “The police are currently investigating any claims of anti-social behaviour at Stanmer Park.”