Safety issues raised as huge car rally drives in
A POLICE plane was deployed after hundreds of drivers turned up for a car rally at a retail park.
Northumbria Police have confirmed no arrests were made and the event at Tyne View Retail Park in Prudhoe passed “without incident” – despite the fact the plane was sent out to help with officers’ response.
Coun Gordon Stewart, who represents Prudhoe South on Northumberland County Council, said he had received complaints from residents and urged the organisers to engage with the authorities to ensure public safety.
Coun Stewart said: “Residents raised concerns with me about cars being driven at what were thought to be excessive speed around various streets in the town. Police officers were quickly on the scene.
“Public safety has to be of utmost importance, and I have discussed this with a senior police officer over the weekend, and today with the landowner. “The cars appear to have been linked to organised car events which take place over the summer months at various locations throughout the region at large car parks with land owners, local authorities and the police not being informed beforehand.
“I would ask the organisers to work with the authorities so the many people attending such events can enjoy their sport, and minimise the risk and nuisance to themselves and others.”
A spokesman for Northumbria Police confirmed they attended the event but did not take action against anyone present.
He said: “On Sunday night we were made aware of a car rally at Tyneview Retail Park in Prudhoe.
“Officers went to the scene to ensure the safety of the public including those in attendance. The group later dispersed and the event passed without incident.”
Prudhoe residents also questioned why a light aircraft appeared to be performing circuits while the event took place.
A spokeswoman for the National Police Air Service confirmed a police aeroplane was in flight at around 8.10pm on Sunday, when it was deployed to assist Northumbria Police in their response to the rally by providing an aerial view of the event. The organisers of the event are currently unknown.
Residents raised concerns with me about cars being driven at what were thought to be excessive speed Coun Stewart
POLICE ON SCENE AS RESIDENTS REPORT SPEEDING