Police increase presence for Boardmasters festival

Police officers will be deployed across Newquay as thousands of people arrive for Boardmasters today.

Devon and Cornwall Police said officers would be stationed at the festival, on surrounding roads and in the town centre throughout the event.

The force has been working with festival organisers and other agencies in preparation for what it described as an already busy time of year for Newquay.

Police Commander Superintendent Vicky Howell said dedicated resources had been put in place for Boardmasters to avoid disrupting normal policing elsewhere in the force area.

“Our officers will be visible throughout the festival, so please speak to us if you have an issue, or even just come up and say hi,” she said.

Supt Howell said officers would work to safeguard those attending, but warned that anyone committing a crime would be dealt with “swiftly and robustly”.

Festival-goers have been advised to keep valuables out of their tents and carry their phones and payment cards with them, including at night.

Police said drinks, including soft drinks, should never be left unattended. Anyone who believes they or somebody else may have been spiked should report it immediately to festival staff or visit one of the welfare tents in the arena and campsites.

People are also being asked to drink responsibly, respect the local community and look out for each other.

Police stressed that sex without consent is rape and said consent cannot be given if somebody is unconscious or impaired by alcohol or drugs.

Anyone who sees something which does not feel right is being urged to contact a steward, security worker or police officer.

Crimes can be reported to on-site staff or police, online or by calling 101. In an emergency, people should call 999.