Protesters are due to gather at the Greenock Coastguard station this evening. Photo: Johnny Durnan CC-BY-SA-2.0

Police have warned demonstrators not to set off distress flares at a gathering this evening called to protest against a Coastguard station closure.

Strathclyde Police said firing red flares other than in an emergency is illegal, and any such incident will be investigated.

Coastguard supporters are due to gather at the Inverclyde Coastguard station in Greenock at 8pm.

Organisers of a flotilla due to take part in the demonstration said they would be setting off the distress flares.

A police spokesperson said: “Police and Coastguard control rooms have been made aware of the intention to release red flares.

“The Civil Aviation Authority has also been advised of the discharge of the flares in an attempt to prevent sightings believed to be a genuine emergency by aircraft.”

Inspector Ian Wood said: “Police have been made aware of the intention for persons to gather in marine craft and vessels to show their support against the proposed closure of the Inverclyde Coastguard office in Greenock.

“While members of the public are welcome to gather on land or on boats or vessels to show their support for the event, the setting off of red distress flares otherwise than in case of a genuine emergency, is illegal under the Merchant Shipping Act.

“Persons doing so may be subject to an investigation by officers from the Maritime and Coastguard Agency.

“Additionally, the setting off of flares is inherently dangerous and persons are discouraged from doing so due to the fire and safety risks associated.

“Police officers from Strathclyde Police’s Marine Policing Unit will be deployed on the River Clyde to monitor this event.

“They will be supported by local community policing officers who will be present in the area around Esplanade and the Inverclyde Coastguard offices.”