A GROUP of car enthusiasts determined to shed their boy racer image has held its first meeting.

Malton Cruzers was formed last year, following reports of antisocial behaviour in Malton's Wentworth Street car park.

Problems came to a head when the police threatened to impound vehicles and hit car fans with massive fines.

But now complaints have dried up, and the group, which has 22 members, is looking forward to its first full year.

Vice-chairman Mike Allen, 21, of Hawe Road, Norton, said the plan was for the group to enter shows with their customised vehicles.

Mr Allen himself owns a Citroen Saxo VTR. He spent £2,000 on the car, and a further £1,000 on upgrading the sound system, although he said there was still quite a bit of work to do.

He said the group discussed setting up a proper membership system, and what to do with the sponsorship money they have already attracted. The hope was to get as many members as possible.

He said: "We have the website set up, and we hope just to get some good-looking cars and get represented at shows. We want to go to Pickering Show, and Malton Motor Show when it comes up again."

Other plans include a newsletter and the introduction of a formal constitution.

The group, which has Coun Stephen Preston as an honorary member, still meets in Wentworth Street car park most nights as well as the Market Place, but complaints have dried up.

Sergeant Garry Ridler, of Malton and Norton neighbourhood policing team, confirmed complaints had dropped to almost none.

He said: "We have not had any incidents of any note reported to us since September. We've been down there, and the group is behaving in a totally different manner.

"I would go as far to say that I'm impressed with their commitment and the amount of work they've done. It's definitely a move in the right direction, and it's encouraging to see."

For more information about the group visit www.maltoncruzer.org