Keep safe at Groove Festival
Following two successful large-scale music festivals in the Highlands, multi-agency partners are once again seeking to ensure another safe event at Groove 2015, which is to be held near the shores of Loch Ness at Dores this weekend.
Police Scotland, British Red Cross, Highland Council, Highland Alcohol and Drugs Partnership, NHS Highland, Scottish Ambulance Service and the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service are seeking a safe and enjoyable event for those who are attending and working at the festival.
The gates open to the event at 12noon on Saturday with camping on site until Sunday 23rd August. The festival is expected to attract around 5000 people.
Police Scotland Event Commander, Chief Inspector Colin Gough said: "Once again, we will be employing our tried and tested community policing approach to local Summer Musical Festivals, with the focus of keeping people safe. To prevent disorder and antisocial or criminal behaviour we will be working alongside stewards to ensure there is no compromise to public safety.”
Keep Safe Festival advice is available on the Police Scotland website and will be displayed around the Groove site and provides practical information on personal safety:
- Personal safety: stay with friends and family; stay in busy areas; stay alert.
- Protecting valuables: guard against pickpockets; stay alert and only take items you will need.
- Anti-social behaviour: do not carry weapons; do not carry flares or any other form of pyrotechnic; respect local communities and residents.
- At the festival: ensure you have your ticket/wristband; follow the directions of police and stewards; know where your pick up and drop off points are; know which zone your tent is in.
- Travel safety: plan in advance; leave enough time for your journey; ensure you're not under the influence of alcohol from the night before.
- Contact the police: In an emergency dial 999; dial 101 for non-emergency matters; report anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Chief Inspector Gough concluded: “By following our Keep Safe Festival advice it will help to make Groove an enjoyable, memorable and safe experience for everyone and we all have a part to play in making sure this happens."
