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Policing operation at the 2011 Bestival music festival

Press Releases

Published: 14/09/2011


Police are thanking the community for their support in responding swiftly to reports of crime at the Bestival music festival on the Isle of Wight.

50,000 people visited Robin Hill Country Park to enjoy four days of live music and entertainment, during which the number of assaults fell from five in 2010 to one in 2011, and there were no reported problems with ‘legal highs’ or counterfeit wristbands.

A drugs search operation was carried out by police at the event entrances with the support of Bestival organisers. 23 people were arrested on suspicion of possession with intent to supply. 88 people were arrested and street bailed for the possession of drugs, and 85 people received cannabis warnings.

Separate reports of rape were made by two 15-year-old girls from the Isle of Wight at the Bestival. A man from London was arrested on suspicion of rape on Saturday morning (September 10) and bailed pending further enquiries. Detectives are appealing for information with a description of a suspect for the second report of rape, which was made on Sunday night (September 11).

Isle of Wight police commander, Acting Superintendent Gavin McMillan said:  “We treat allegations of rape involving underage victims with the utmost seriousness. Police have officers and civilian staff with the specialist training and experience to provide care and support to victims. We’re in regular contact with both girls and their families to check on their welfare and keep them informed about the progress of the investigations. These two cases are being treated separately as there is no evidence to suggest a link between them. I would like to take this opportunity to thank the Bestival promoters, and the event's many stewards and security staff for all their help in looking after the victims, and protecting evidence for our enquiries.

“The number of thefts reported from tents rose slightly from 117 in 2010 to 122 so far this year (2011) on a campsite, which was considerably larger for a second year. Although any theft is not acceptable, officers did act rapidly on information about the identities and whereabouts of suspects believed to be targeting the Bestival. Several arrests were made during the weekend with suspects charged to appear in court. We’re grateful for the assistance of the organisers, our partner agencies, and the island’s transport operators, particularly the Solent ferry companies.

“Some delays on the roads around Robin Hill Country Park were to be expected because of the large number of motorists travelling to the Bestival. We appreciate people’s patience and understanding in respecting the event’s traffic management plan. I’m pleased to say there were no reports of serious road traffic collisions linked to Bestival traffic.

“A routine de-briefing for the Bestival security and police operations takes place each year so a discussion of any issues can support planning for future events. The multi-agency co-operation at the Bestival is regarded as an example of best practice for similar events nationally. Police will continue working closely with Bestival organisers to keep crime levels low.”


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