Merseyside Police has issued advice to people planning to attend this weekend's Southport Air Show to ensure everyone has a safe and enjoyable time. The annual celebration of military vehicles and aerial displays returns to the coastline on Saturday, August 29 and Sunday, August 30.
Road closures and travel advice
Visitors are advised to plan their journey in advance and give themselves extra time as the area is expected to be busy and there will be road closures in the surrounding area. Marine Drive will be closed between the junctions of Weld Road, Victoria Way, Marine Parade and the roundabout with the KFC from 7am on both days. There will be diversions in place.
There will also be security checks when entering the site. A statement from Merseyside Police reads: "As part of the policing operation for the event there will be flight restrictions in place affecting unmanned aircraft including drones.
Drone restrictions and security
"The Restricted Airspace (Temporary) has been put in place to protect those attending the event and assist with the security.
"Drone users flying inside the Restricted Airspace (Temporary) that have not been granted permission will be guilty of committing an offence and could be prosecuted as well as having their equipment seized and confiscated.
"Merseyside Police take breaches of the Restricted Airspace (Temporary) seriously and if we suspect a drone is being flown in the Restricted Airspace then action will be taken."
Full details of the restrictions are available on the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) and National Air Traffic Services (NATS) websites.
Police presence and public vigilance
Event commander Chief Superintendent Claire Doyle said: "Merseyside Police has a long history of supporting organisers of major events in partnership with other emergency services and stakeholders.
"We prepare well in advance with extensive planning taking place to ensure that everyone can have a safe and enjoyable time.
"The Air Show site will be accessible by train, bus and car, so plan your journey in advance and give yourselves additional time.
"Those attending should expect to undergo security checks when entering the site. Security staff will be searching for prohibited items, which include knives, transmitting devices, fireworks and laser devices.
"You will also see an increased police presence in the area, which is quite normal for large events in Merseyside. We also use less visible measures including plain clothes officers. It’s all about disrupting criminality and helping keep this a safe and enjoyable event.
"We ask the public to be vigilant and to immediately report anything that they see or hear that does not feel right by telling a police officer or stewarding staff. You can also call the police on 101 or the Anti-Terrorist Hotline on 0800 789 321. In an emergency, always call 999."
