Police urge racegoers to stay alert as British Grand Prix arrives at Silverstone

The police force that covers Silverstone has urged race-goers to stay alert as the track welcomes the British Grand Prix.

This weekend’s race at Silverstone runs from 2 to 5 July, is expected to attract more than half a million visitors to the track located in Northamptonshire and Buckinghamshire.

Northamptonshire Police have revealed details of their race weekend operation, where they will be working closely with event security and other emergency service colleagues. There will be a visible policing presence both at the circuit and in the local community, which police say aims to help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for visitors and residents alike.

While motor racing is the main attraction, thousands of visitors will also enjoy live music and entertainment throughout the day and evening. Ensuring their safety and security is the primary aim of the policing operation.

Public support is also vital. By being alert to any suspicious activity and reporting anything of concern to the police or circuit security, they can make a valuable contribution to public safety.

Chief Inspector Pete Basham is the Event Commander for Northamptonshire Police. He explained why this is important and how racing fans can play their part in keeping people safe.

He said, “In April, the national terrorism threat level was increased to ‘severe’. Major events like the Formula 1 Grand Prix bring people together from across the UK and beyond, but they can also be targets, so it’s vital to remain vigilant.

“The Grand Prix is one of many major events taking place this summer, and the public have an important role to play by trusting their instincts and reporting anything that doesn’t feel right.

“I’d urge everyone coming to Silverstone to stay alert for anything unusual, whether inside or outside the circuit. Any information you share with event staff, security or the police could make a real difference.

“If you see something that doesn’t feel right, report it to security straight away – it will be taken seriously. We would always rather receive a well-meaning report that turns out to be nothing than miss something important.

“We hope everyone has an amazing time and thank you for playing your part.”

Tips for staying safe at the event provided by the police include asking people to arrive early to allow enough time for security checks and to be patient – checks are in place to keep everyone safe.

Visitors are also encouraged to travel light as fewer bags to search will speed up entry. The advice is also to stay alert and look out for each other. If something doesn’t feel right, report it. Don’t leave it to someone else.

Don’t leave bags unattended and never agree to look after a stranger’s bag, no matter how genuine they seem.

In the event of an incident, listen to announcements and follow instructions from staff.

In an emergency, always call 999.

Northamptonshire Police confirmed that to support security measures, Live Facial Recognition (LFR) will again be in use during the event. LFR technology has been deployed at the event for the past three years and works by scanning faces with a camera to match biometrics against those held on a watchlist. This list is generated by the police and focuses on those who pose the greatest risk of danger to the wider public in attendance.

Visitors to the circuit are also warned of the potential dangers of flares, smoke bombs and pyrotechnics and are reminded that the flying of drones near the circuit is strictly prohibited.

Superintendent Basham added, “The security measures in place will be as stringent as ever and if you’re coming to Silverstone this weekend, do check beforehand what you can and cannot bring into the circuit.

“Flares, smoke bombs and pyrotechnics are definitely on the prohibited list, and remember also there are strict rules around drones.

“A flying restriction cordon is in place around the circuit heliport, which takes in many of the campsites, and there will simply be too many people around for flying drones to be safe or legal even outside the circuit.

“Our officers will be on patrol throughout the week to deter and prevent crime, and keep people safe. However, we know the vast majority of people are here simply to enjoy the racing and other entertainment and it’s set to be a fantastic four-days of motor sport, music and more.

“We hope everyone has an amazing time and thank you for playing your part.”