MOVES to have two speed boats operating from Whitby Harbour taking parties of tourists out to sea, have met with a mixed response from other harbour users.

Pleasure boat operator Barry Rodgers has described the plan, which has been discussed by Whitby Harbour Users Committee, as "ludicrous and dangerous".

He said: "The nature of the harbour, which is a river after all, makes it too dangerous for speed boats. There are hazards coming down the Esk which would be dangerous for speed boats."

However, leading Whitby trawler owner Arnold Locker said: "With the decline in the fishing fleet and loss of the cargo trade, the remaining fishing community were having to pay high costs to make up the loss of revenue. The harbour needs all the money it can get" he said.

Speedboat licences would generate more income for the harbour, said Mr Locker, and there was space available.

A report is expected to be produced by Scarborough Borough Council on the issue in the next few weeks.