Silverstone protesters warned to stay away after disruption tip-off
Northamptonshire Police and Silverstone have warned potential protesters to stay away from the F1 British Grand Prix this weekend. It comes after the police received intelligence that individuals might attempt to access the track. The warning, issued this morning, July 1, told people thinking of disrupting the event that invading the circuit would put lives at risk.
It also reasserted that extra resources are being deployed at Silverstone to ensure “anyone thinking of taking advantage of the race weekend… will be caught”. Chief Inspector Tom Thompson, event commander for Silverstone, is in charge of the police presence during the weekend. He said: “We have received credible intelligence that a group of protesters are planning to disrupt the event and possibly invade the track on race day.”
READ MORE: Ravers make claims of police brutality after being hit by riot shields and bitten by dogs at illegal music event He continued: “First of all, I want to appeal directly to this group of people and strongly urge you to not put yourselves, the drivers, as well as the many marshals, volunteers and members of the public, at risk. Going onto a live racetrack is extremely dangerous – if you go ahead with this reckless plan, you are jeopardising lives.
“Protesting is, of course, everyone’s human right in this country and we are more than happy to speak with you to help you facilitate a peaceful protest at the circuit. We just please ask that you do not create a situation that puts lives in danger.” Northamptonshire Police say they have planned a wide-ranging policing operation which has taken into account dealing with any possible disruption.
Extra resources are in place throughout the weekend should anyone ignore the warnings, they added. Ch Insp Thompson said: “We are very experienced in the policing of this event, having done so over a number of years, but let me make this clear – this doesn’t make us complacent. The security measures we have put in place are as stringent as ever and anyone thinking of taking advantage of the race weekend to commit a crime will be caught.
“Finally, I would just appeal to members of the public to be extra vigilant and to make us aware of anything you see during the race weekend that doesn’t look right. We would rather get a well-meaning report that turns out to be nothing, than not receive one at all. “If you see or suspect anything suspicious, please report it to a member of the police or security.” Northants Police urged any protestors who wished to speak to the team working at Silverstone to call them on 101 and quote “Op Pitlane.”
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