Sheffield car enthusiasts warned to avoid meet up this weekend or have their vehicles seized

Motorists planning to attend a car cruise in Chapletown and other areas of the city over the weekend have been told by officers that the meet up could be a waste of their time.

Officers have been made aware of a possible planned car meet on Sunday, October 4 on Sheffield roads and have said powers of dispersal, under the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014, will be used against motorists that gather.

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Police also warned that motorists who drive anti-socially will have their cars seized under the Police Reform Act Section 59 and checks will be conducted against drivers’ insurance, licence and car modifications to ensure they are in line with the law.

Roads Policing Inspector Jason Booth said: “We are traffic officers; we understand people’s passion for cars and that likeminded people want to come together and admire each other’s work, however, anti-social driving and behaviour will not be tolerated across our districts and these events need to be organised in a safe manner

“Unauthorised car meets are not only illegal but can be unsafe for participants and the wider public.

“They also impact on members of our communities with noise levels and pollution.

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"At recent car meets, drivers have driven in such a manner that damage has been caused to the roads and local infastructure.

“We are willing to work with organisers of car meets to ensure that they are done in a safe and controlled manner but we will take enforcement action where needed.

Government coronavirus restrictions forbid people from meeting up in groups larger than six, prohibiting large gatherings from taking place either indoors or outside.

Insp Booth added: “This weekend we will have additional resources and patrols in anticipation of this meet.

“Alongside enforcement for driving behaviour and offences, we have power to fine those breaching Covid-19 guidelines, organisers of events can also face fines.”

Anyone who has any information about planned car meets is asked to call police on 101 or report online via the South Yorkshire Police website.

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