Facial recognition cameras to be deployed at Boardmasters for first time

Facial recognition cameras will be used during this year's Boardmasters Festival in what police say is a first for Cornwall.

The technology is set to be deployed in Newquay as part of security measures surrounding the event, which attracts tens of thousands of people to the town each summer.

Speaking to Newquay Town Council, Inspector Steve Johnson said police intended to use a facial recognition camera van during the festival period to support public safety.

He said: "This year we intend to roll out a Facial Recognition Cameras van to assist with security and reassurance around the event and the Town.

"This should be seen as a positive for us. It will give us the opportunity to address concerns around some of those attending the event and the area and hopefully tighten security around the VAWG (violence against women and girls) agenda and any threat from Organised Crime."

Police say the technology can be configured to identify specific individuals who may pose a risk to public safety, including people suspected of serious offences.

Inspector Johnson told councillors that the criteria used by the system would be set by police and would be subject to strict safeguards.

He said the use of the technology would be "reasonable and proportionate", adding that data collected during operations would not be retained indefinitely and would be removed in line with data protection legislation and GDPR requirements.

Boardmasters takes place between 5 and 9 August at Watergate Bay and Fistral Beach and is one of the UK's largest surf and music festivals.