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Policing operation begins as thousands arrive for Grand Prix
15/07/2021
325,000 people are expected to arrive at the circuit over the weekend
A four-day policing operation is underway at Silverstone ahead of the 2021 F1 British Grand Prix this weekend.
More than 325,000 people are expected to arrive at the circuit over the weekend as one of the country’s largest sporting events gets underway. Around 110,000 people look set to attend Sunday’s main race.
Specialist search officers and dogs have today started patrolling in and around the circuit and in the grandstands and campsites to ensure race-goers have a safe and enjoyable time.
Chief Inspector Tom Thompson, the event commander for Northamptonshire Police, said: “Spectators are already starting to arrive at the circuit for this year’s F1 British Grand Prix and Northamptonshire Police is working with the event organisers to keep them as safe as possible.
“This event is one of the biggest sporting events in the country and a lot of planning goes into the policing operation every year.
“However, although we are very experienced in the policing of this event, this doesn’t mean we are complacent. The security measures put in place by the event organisers are as stringent as ever and anyone thinking of taking advantage of the race weekend to commit a crime is highly likely to be caught.”
Officers are warning anyone thinking of flying a drone over the circuit this weekend that their activity will be quickly curtailed.
Chief Inspector Thompson, said: “Drones are prohibited throughout the race weekend and the Civil Aviation Authority has imposed a flight restriction for the entirety of the Grand Prix period.
“The circuit has security measures in place to identify and stop anybody attempting to fly a drone and they will be robustly investigated.
“I also recommend racegoers take a look at our crime prevention tips and do all they can to prepare for their visit.
“Finally, the public can help us keep the event safe by being vigilant for anyone who looks out of place or suspicious, by reporting it to us on the 101 number, or in an emergency 999.”
Published: by Banbury FM Newsteam