POLICE and car enthusiasts could be heading towards a showdown on Scarborough seafront over an event planned for this weekend.

North Yorkshire Police has said that a “car cruise” being advertised on social media does not have permission to take place.

The Static Royals’ organised event claims it will take place on Sunday, March 1, with the club adamant that drivers will be turning up on the seafront regardless of the police’s stance.

The police say that no permission has been given and any event, and even the publicising of such an event, is in breach of a Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) brought in for Scarborough in 2018 after Royal Albert Drive was damaged during a car cruise.

Scarborough Police’s Neighbourhood Policing Inspector Graeme Kynman said: “We are aware that a ‘car cruise’ event is being planned on Scarborough’s Marine Drive on Sunday March 1.

“The borough of Scarborough is subject to a Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) to make sure that our residents, businesses and visitors feel safe. Failure to comply is a criminal offence."

Ryan Linley, from the Static Royals, said that while he is not organising the event on behalf of the club, Royals are confident they are breaking no laws.

He said: “The PSPO covers laws that are already in place. As long as nobody does anything stupid like playing loud music, speeding, stunts or obstructing the road then it is perfectly legal. I would hope that nobody would do anything stupid.

“All the things the PSPO outlaws are covered by existing laws. It says two cars can’t travel in convoy but only if they are committing a prohibited act, such as speeding or stunts.

"If 500 cars turn up, obey the laws and park up peacefully then there is nothing the police or anyone can do.”