DRIVERS are warned not to park in some streets ahead of this year’s Durham Miners Gala.

The 130th Big Meeting takes place on Saturday (July 12) and is expected to attracted thousands to watch the parade of bands.

As ever, many city centre roads will be closed on the day.

And parking will be banned from 6pm Friday night (July 11) until 8pm on Saturday in New Elvet, Old Elvet, Prison Green and Green Lane.

A police spokesman said: “This measure was brought in after a number of cars had to be towed away in previous years.

“Police found several owners had parked up before enjoying a night out in the city and then returned the next day fully expecting to pick up their vehicles.

“Any vehicles remaining in the Elvet area after 6pm on Friday may be removed by the police under the contract vehicle recovery scheme.

“It will cost owners a recovery fee plus any storage charges to get their vehicles back.“

On Saturday no vehicles – including pedal cycles – will be allowed between 6.30am and 8pm in: Framwellgate Bridge; Market Place; Saddler Street; Owengate; North and South Bailey; Dun Cow Lane; Bow Lane; Silver Street; Elvet Bridge and New Elvet Bridge; Territorial Lane; Green Lane, Elvet Waterside; Court Lane; Elvet Crescent; Old Elvet; New Elvet plus Pelaw Leazes to Baths Bridge.

Church Street, Hallgarth Street and Whinney Hill will also be closed but some residential access will be maintained when possible.

North Road, Flass Street and Sutton Street will be closed between 8 and 10am and again between 3 and 8pm.

More information is at www.durham.police.uk