Carlisle is set to welcome a crowd of 40,000 and a host of international artists as Radio 1’s Big Weekend comes to Cumbria.
Next weekend, Saturday 14 and Sunday 15 May, Carlisle airport will host the biggest live music event the county has ever seen that attracts some of the world’s favourite bands and performers.
Cumbria Constabulary has been working in partnership with Carlisle Tourism Partnership, Carlisle City Council and BBC Radio 1 to ensure that the weekend runs like clockwork and is enjoyable and safe for all those attending.
Chief Inspector Mark Pannone is leading the police operation for the event. He said: “Radio 1’s Big Weekend coming to Carlisle is a real boost for the local area. Everyone is looking forward to it and we have spent months planning, alongside local councils and Radio 1, to ensure that the event runs smoothly and is as safe and enjoyable as possible for all the lucky ticket holders.
“An event of this scale will mean that there will be some disruption on our roads, however police officers will be on hand to help keep these to a minimum.
“Attending this event is a once in a lifetime opportunity for music fans and we hope that the crowds take simple steps to ensure they stay safe and get the most out of the event.
“This may be the first experience of a festival for some, so we will be handing out some simple, pocket sized personal safety tips that we would urge people to follow.
“We will also be using Bluetooth technology to send out crime prevention reminders and will be updating our social networking sites throughout the weekend to keep the community informed of how the event is going.”
A variety of staff will be involved in the policing of the event over the weekend. These will include Police Officers, Police Community Support Officers, members of the Special Constabulary and police staff. These are in addition to those officers who are normally on duty so as not to interfere with normal policing operations.
Cumbria Constabulary is issuing the following safety advice to the people who secured tickets.
Top Tips to enjoy a fun and safe R1BW:
• Look after yourself and each other – stay together and plan somewhere to meet if you get separated
• Look after your things. Keep your phone, bag, money, camera etc. out of sight – don’t draw attention to your stuff
• Drink responsibly. Binge drinking makes you vulnerable and you’ll have a much better time if you don’t overdo it
• Never accept a drink from someone you don’t know or trust
• Keep your drink with you at all times. If it looks or tastes suspicious don’t drink it
• Look out for your friends and make sure they get home safely
• Don’t walk home from the event – the roads will be dark and busy
• Never accept lifts from strangers or unregistered taxis
• Have fun and stay safe!
Officers will be updating their social networking sites over the weekend - follow Cumbriapolice on Twitter or search Cumbria police on Facebook.
Festival goers are reminded that:
• The Radio 1 Big Weekend festival site will open at around 12 noon on both days. The event will finish at 10pm on both nights.
• Food and alcohol will be on sale inside the venue, however those who look under 21 may be asked for proof of age. Acceptable forms of ID will be a photo driving licence or passport.
• No food or drink can be taken into the site – with the exception of personal supplies of water in a plastic container with an unbroken seal (up to 500ml per person).
For answers information about the event, visit the BBC Radio 1 Big Weekend site: www.bbc.co.uk/radio1/bigweekend/2011
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