Merseyside police have issued a warning to festival-goers ahead of a major music event in the region this weekend.
The Reminisce festival - which was postponed last year due to the pandemic - will return to Sherdley Park, St Helens tomorrow, featuring a host DJs and pop legends like Atomic Kitten and S Club 7.
Ahead of the event, police are warning those attending about antisocial behaviour, drugs offences and covid cases - while also seeking to reassure those living around the event site.
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Chief Superintendent Jennifer Wilson said: "The festival was postponed last year due to the pandemic, and I know regular attendees in particular will be really looking forward to getting back to Sherdley Park to enjoy all the music and entertainment on offer.
“I want to reassure the community living near Sherdley Park, as well as festival goers, that our officers will be on duty in and around the park throughout the event, which is organised by Reminisce and supported by St Helens Council.
"After missing last year, I hope that everyone who is coming along this year will be able to enjoy the live music with friends and family safely and responsibly.”
Chief Supt Wilson added: "Hundreds of people have waited a long time to enjoy Reminisce and we are confident they will do so sensibly and safely. However, it is imperative that the behaviour of a few individuals does not risk the event being spoiled for others. As such we will have a robust presence on site and our officers will deal firmly and seriously with any crime, drug possession or supply, or anti-social behaviour they see.
"Drugs will not be tolerated at the event and there will be a strict search policy in place, operated by organisers. Anyone found to be in possession of drugs will not be allowed on site and will risk prosecution.
“The organisers and Merseyside Police also advise anyone attending the event to drink sensibly. After a long-awaited celebration, some may have forgotten the risks associated with too much alcohol. Be drink aware and avoid falling victim to opportunist criminals who seek to exploit any vulnerability.”
Police are also urging people to take action to avoid being victims of petty crime, suggesting those attending don't bring unnecessary bags to the event, don't leave valuables unattended and keep wallets and purses out of sight.
The organisers of the event have also reminded customers that while restrictions on gatherings and live events are no longer in place, cases of coronavirus continue to rise and it is recommended that attendees take a covid test within 36 hours prior to attending, wear a face covering where possible and respect other people’s space.
Anyone with symptoms or testing positive for Coronavirus should self-isolate, report their result to the NHS app and avoid attending the event.
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