SAVE Slicks! That was the message today from York's police commander Chief Inspector Andy Bell, who expressed shock and anger at the closure of the popular go-karting club.

Chief Insp Bell, who originally helped to set up the City of York Council-run project in 1998, said it had contributed to the 30 per cent reduction in car thefts in York this year.

He has now called on businesses to come up with sponsorship money to get Slicks back on track. The Evening Press reported yesterday that the project - which was designed to steer kids away from car crime - closed because of funding shortages after a reorganisation of the council's youth services.

It operated a workshop at the Moor Lane Youth Centre and used a makeshift racetrack in the car park of York College, off Tadcaster Road. The karts travel at a maximum speed of 15mph, but organisers said the thrill factor was just as great as if you were driving a car at 60mph.

"I'm very disappointed by the closure," Chief Insp Bell said.

"Anything that gets kids off the streets has got to be a positive thing.

"Slicks is exactly the sort of initiative which gives youngsters an interest and works towards reducing auto crime offences.

"It has proved successful in York and elsewhere in the county and I would hope that in the near future funding can be found to get it back on board.

"I would appeal to any businesses which have any spare money to come forward and try to get it back on track - because it does work."

City of York councillor Keith Orrell said they would consider restarting the project if there was enough interest.

"If businesses want to help with this project and there is a demand from young people then we are always open to new ideas," he said.

If you want to help re-open Slicks phone Matthew Woodcock on 01904 653051.

Updated: 08:09 Friday, February 25, 2005