Selby Fork: Police warning after 'dangerous' car meet

Police were called to an illegal car meet at Selby Fork

Up to 200 vehicles gathered on Sunday for an "illegal and extremely dangerous" car meet, police have said.

Members of the public reported cars "racing and driving in an anti-social manner" on the old A1 at Selby Fork.

Police were called to the incident at 22:15 GMT and saw vehicles parked in live lanes and people "walking and running" on the unlit carriageway.

North Yorkshire Police said it had partnered with the West Yorkshire force to crack down on illegal meets.

"Over recent years there has been several high-profile incidents where street racing has resulted in people being seriously injured," a North Yorkshire Police spokesperson said.

"We have all seen on the news the reports of devastating accidents at these types of gatherings and the tragedy for the families of those involved."

Operation Republic

The force has teamed up with West Yorkshire Police to launch Operation Republic to crack down on illegal car meets and protect road users.

Officers warned people to stay away from such gatherings and advised racing enthusiasts to attend an organised track day instead.

"Officers will be patrolling the area of Selby Fork on a regular basis and if you are caught in attendance, police will be looking to prosecute for any driving offences, document offences and use powers under S59 of the Police Reform Act which could lead to the seizure of your vehicle," a spokesperson added.