A planned victory parade for York City Football Club in York city centre has been cancelled after North Yorkshire Police confirmed they could not support the event due to safety concerns. The decision follows the club’s recent promotion back to the Football League, a return to professional football secured on 25 April 2026 after a dramatic draw against Rochdale.
The club had proposed a bus parade to celebrate their status as National League champions, a milestone marking the end of a decade-long absence from the professional leagues. York City co-chair Julie-Anne Uggla stated that the club spent three days working on the arrangements and even changed the proposed date to Tuesday to accommodate police requests. However, the club was informed that the plans would not move forward late last Friday.
The City of York Council confirmed that the event management plan submitted by the club lacked key details. Officials from a multi-agency safety group, which includes the police, ambulance, and fire services, raised concerns regarding the proposed route and safety measures.
Despite the cancellation of the bus tour, the club has organised an alternative celebration at the LNER Community Stadium on Wednesday, 29 April 2026. The event will begin at 7:30pm, with tickets priced at £1. All proceeds are being donated to the Candlelighters charity.
Local political leaders have since stepped in to discuss potential alternatives. York Outer MP Luke Charters and Mayor David Skaith have pledged to work with the parties involved to find a solution for a public celebration. Mr Charters has suggested that an open-top boat parade on the River Ouse, hosted by City Cruises, could serve as a potential alternative.
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