Creamfields policing operation a success

Making sure people attending Creamfields stayed safe was once again a top priority for the force and event-organisers at this year’s event.

The festival involved a significant policing operation both over the bank holiday weekend itself, and during the planning phase.

Cheshire Police worked closely with the organisers to make the event as safe as possible and limit any adverse impact on the local community.

In total 32 people were arrested at the festival for a variety of offences.

In addition, more than 50 people were dealt with by police and will go through the criminal justice processes at a later stage. With a number of people also dealt with via local resolution.

A total of 125 crimes were reported for a variety of offences compared to 164 last year - the most common being drug related.

Superintendent Sarah Heath, who led the policing operation for Creamfields 2024, said:

“Almost 80,000 people attended this year’s event and I’d like to take the opportunity to thank the vast majority of festival-goers for their cooperation and their behaviour throughout.

“There was a really good atmosphere at Creamfields, and it was clear that attendees were there to have a good time. Storm Lillian tested the adverse weather plans, but those who needed to take shelter were guided to the designated areas, kept safe and warm until the winds subsided. A considerable rebuild was required in some areas but the gates opened on time and the event continued uninterrupted with the festival enjoyed by most, respectfully and safely.

“A conscious effort was made to target and take action against those who were intent on supplying illegal substances at the festival - before and during the event. With officers conducting pre-event site searches, the use of surrender bins, along with an extensive search process by security personnel at entrances to the site.

“We had an increased presence with officers from Project Servator in attendance. This team’s aim was to deter and detect a range of criminal activity while providing a reassuring presence for the public - and the result of this activity is clear through the reduction in crime at Creamfields this year.

“The policing operation extended beyond the festival coming to an end with officers supporting Creamfields with their plans to deter trespassing and keep people safe. Our robust approach saw a number of dispersal notices issued and an arrest for burglary.

“I want to say a massive thank you to the local community for their support before, during and post event. We recognise the disruption the event can cause, and we are pleased that a number of local residents have come forward to express their thanks for working hard to keep them safe – rest assured our efforts will continue.”

Project Servator is a national operation that works with partner agencies, including other police forces, businesses and the public, to continue to protect people and to make it difficult for criminals and terrorists to operate.