My Statement on the Christian Light and Life taking place near Market Harborough
I have been contacted by a number of councillors, members of the public and business owners in relation to this event. I have spoken to senior police officers as well as the local beat team about preparations being made.
It is important to point out that this is a private event and it is not the police’s role to provide security around such an event. However, due to the increase in numbers of people in the local area we have been working to support the organisers and the local authority. Whilst the event is taking place, police will be carrying out increased routine patrols.
The Police have engaged as a stakeholder, alongside other agencies, with the local Harborough District Council, who are the lead agency on the Safety Advisory Group in regard the planning and response to the private religious event.
To reassure the public about actions we have taken here are some key points:
- Police have received a number of enquiries in relation to an annual Christian convention starting this weekend at the showground in Market Harborough.
- Police are aware of the event and an appropriate policing plan is in place due to the large increase of people in the area.
- Officers have been in discussion with the venue and local partner agencies for some time and remain in close contact with them.
- The police beat team have been out engaging with the local community and will continue to do this throughout the week.
- We have carefully planned a proportionate response to the increase in footprint in the area and have been liaising with the event organisers. It is not the police’s role to provide security around a private event, although we will respond robustly to any reports of increased anti-social behaviour or crimes and have put additional patrols in place to ensure the public feel reassured with the police presence.
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Thank you
Rupert Matthews
Police and Crime Commissioner
Leicester, Leicestershire & Rutland
