Nankang has issued an emergency alert to drivers and tyre suppliers that a batch of tyres which were made for a theatre show and not designed for road use have been seen on sale.

Drivers using them could face prosecution because the tyres are not legal for road use and they would not be insured in the event of a crash. Suppliers selling them could also face prosecution.

A spokesman said: “Tyres produced for a theatre show have appeared for sale in the UK marketplace. Nankang Tyre UK and Nankang Rubber Tire Corp are aware of this issue and are tracing the source. These tyres have not been imported by Nankang Tyre UK and are not covered by any type of warranty. The grey compound tyres are designed solely for use on a grey wooden floor at low speed. They have never been tested for use outside of this.”

Sizes affected are 15 to 20 inch and have a manufacturer date code of: 4117, 4217, 4317, 4417, 4517, 4617, 4717, 5017, 5117 and 5217.

Grey tyres can be recognised by a grey coloured tread, no E markings and the word ‘competition’ written on the sidewall.

Nankang said: “We strongly advise that these tyres are not fitted to vehicles of any type. Using these tyres may result in failure. Any parties found to be involved with the selling or distribution of the grey tyres may face legal action.”