Cheshire Police will deploy additional patrols in Chester this weekend as thousands of visitors are expected to travel to the city centre for the latest race day at Chester Racecourse on Saturday, August 22.
The extra patrols will deal with any anti-social behaviour or disorder which may arise, as well as tackling drug-related offences. Officers will be positioned both near to the racecourse itself and at key locations across the city.
Dispersal Order in Place
To help support the operation, a dispersal order will be in place from 7pm on Friday, August 21 until 7am on Sunday, August 23. It has been imposed under Section 34 of the Antisocial Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014, making it an offence for anyone to return to a specific area for up to 48 hours to prevent disorder. The area covered by the order is highlighted in the attached mapped area, and the map is provided to anyone issued with a direction to leave.
Police and Racecourse Response
Inspector James Wilson, of Chester Local Policing Unit, said: “The races are expected to bring thousands of visitors to Chester, and we are working alongside our partners at Chester Racecourse to ensure that everyone enjoys their time here safely.
“Whether you are a racegoer, resident or visitor, we know a vast majority of people will enjoy the weekend without disorder, we will have an increased police presence in the area due to the influx of people expected.
“This, as well as the dispersal order, will allow us to take robust action should any anti-social, drug-related or other criminal behaviour arise in the city. These orders are an additional tactical option that allows us to directly combat these issues head-on, while providing a reassuring policing presence for the public.
“I would urge members of the public and businesses to continue to report any issues by contacting Cheshire Police via the Cheshire Police website or calling 101.”
Event Highlights and Safety Measures
Steve Davies, COO at Chester Race Company, added: “We’re really looking forward to welcoming guests to our Powell’s Jewellery Ladies Day fixture this weekend.
“It’s no surprise that it’s one of our most popular and well-loved events on the racing calendar, with a Best Dressed competition promising amazing prizes, celebrity DJs providing the music, and an excellent line-up of runners and riders all helping to make it a phenomenal day of racing.
“As with any event we put on at Chester Racecourse, safety is always our first priority. We take every possible measure to look after our guests and maintain our status as a welcoming venue to all.
“This includes working closely with local authorities to eliminate any possibility of drugs entering our site. We take a zero-tolerance approach to drugs, and this is evident at every touchpoint, so people know the score from the off-set.
“We’re grateful to Cheshire Police for working so collaboratively with us and other businesses across Chester to help keep the city safe and enjoyable for everyone on a race day.”
