Zycko fined for demolition derby

Plumes of smoke caused by torched cars prompts Environment Agency to impose hefty fine

Zycko may well be regretting a ‘demolition derby’ event it threw in 2005 after being slapped with a six-figure fine from the Environment Agency.

The distributor has been charged £124,000 for torching cars in the aftermath of the event, which was reportedly put on as corporate entertainment.

The late-night party, which occurred in September 2005, was held on ground owned by Zycko chairman Rory Sweet.

According to the prosecution, a plume of toxic black smoke was visible for miles around after 12 cars used in the festivities were stacked and then set on fire.

Zycko said in a statement that Sweet was appealing against the fine.

“Zycko acknowledges its involvement in this case, but as Mr Sweet is appealing against the court’s decision we cannot pass any further comment at this time,” the company said.