05 Jun, 2017 13:40 News

Months of planning and preparation have paid off after a successful Investec Derby Festival.

The two days saw Surrey police officers working together with Epsom Down’s Racecourse, colleagues from British Transport Police, the Metropolitan Police, Sussex Police, Kent Police, South East Coast Ambulance Service, Surrey Fire and Rescue, St Johns Ambulance and many others. 

This year, in light of the recent attacks in Manchester, Westminster, Europe and elsewhere around the world we reviewed our policing approach with the racecourse and all of our partners to ensure that everybody attending had a safe and enjoyable two days.

Over the course of the two day festival we saw a total of 12 arrests. One arrest on Ladies Day for drunk and disorderly and public order offences and 11 arrests on Investec Derby Day for public order offences, drug offences and a breach of a dispersal order.

Temporary Chief Superintendent Jerry Westerman, said: “The Investec Derby festival is a highlight in the sporting calendar and it is a privilege to be part of such a prestige event.

“Over the course of the two days it was fantastic to meet so many friendly members of the public who were so reassured and grateful to see all our officers and armed officers policing the event. Although Ladies Day ended in torrential downpours the spirits remained high.

“Following the Investec Derby Day on Saturday we saw the news of another terrible attack in London, our thoughts go out to all those affected and we will do all we can to support our colleagues in the Metropolitan Police.”

“I would like to extend a special thanks to all of our policing colleagues and partners for their support in ensuring that the event ran as smoothly and safely as possible. Now more than ever it is important that we all work together with the public as we tackle the ongoing terrorist threat.”