Merseyside Police has already begun extensive planning for another busy calendar of events across the region, with community partners continuing to play a vital role in ensuring the safety of those attending.
The force’s planning teams are well-versed in delivering policing operations for major events, from the internationally renowned Aintree Races to Liverpool Pride. In the coming months, police and partners will draw up security plans for familiar favourites such as music concerts at the city’s waterfront and Anfield stadium and this year’s exciting addition to the calendar: Radio 1’s Big Weekend at Sefton Park in May.
Chief Inspector Iain Wyke of Protective Security Operations at Merseyside Police said: “We’re fortunate to host a diverse range of events that bring visitors from far and wide to experience what Merseyside offers.
“Our operational planning for this year’s events began many months ago. This includes working with partners to minimise disruption to local communities and delivering training for event organisers, venue staff and local businesses on how to spot suspicious activity and what action to take. Working with, and supporting partners, ensures the smooth running of these events, disrupting any potential criminal activity and keeping people safe.”
Liverpool City Council’s Cabinet Member for Health, Wellbeing and Culture, Councillor Harry Doyle, said: “Our collaboration with Merseyside Police is incredibly valuable and as a top, global city for major events, this Team Liverpool approach is crucial. Supporting Project Servator allows us to disrupt criminal activity and ensure public safety is paramount before and during the events we host here.”
The force will use a variety of tactics as part of its operational plans including Project Servator deployments, which have been used in Merseyside since 2018. The deployments are deliberately unpredictable and use specially trained uniform and plain-clothes officers to spot tell-tale signs that someone may be gathering information to help them plan or prepare to commit a crime. These officers will also encourage the public, including people working in local businesses, to be extra eyes and ears, and report suspicious activity.
Chief Inspector Wyke added: “These highly visible Project Servator deployments are supported by colleagues in other specialist roles such as firearms officers and dog handlers. The officers are also in contact with City Watch for round-the-clock monitoring of the CCTV network used across the force area.
“If you see a Project Servator deployment, there’s nothing to worry about. Feel free to talk to officers, they will be happy to explain what they are doing and how you can help keep people safe.”
Everyone can play a part in ensuring a successful and safe programme of events. If you are out and about, report anything you see that doesn’t feel right immediately to a member of staff or a police officer. Or call the police on 101. If it is an emergency, always call 999.
Guidance on how to help, including what suspicious activity to look out for, and confidential reporting is available at www.gov.uk/act.
