Somerset County Council has this week written to schools advising them that Police are concerned about possible anti-social behaviour during this week’s Bridgwater Fair.
The letter, which was posted online, warns: “Concerns have come to light around a known cohort of 40+ young people representing different groups in the Bridgwater and Taunton areas presenting a risk of anti-social behaviour, violence and disruption. Intelligence suggests that some of these people are known to carry weapons and that inter-group hostility is the greatest cause of concern. Every effort is being made by Avon and Somerset Police in conjunction with multiple agencies to disrupt this activity.”
A Somerset County Council spokesperson told Burnham-On-Sea.com: “Bridgwater Fair is a popular attraction and thousands of people are expected to visit the area over the next week.”
“We shared a briefing with schools in the Bridgwater and Taunton area to make them aware that Police have highlighted that there could be an issue with antisocial behaviour at the event.”
“We asked schools to get in touch with the Police if they had any concerns or were aware of information relating to this.”
“Somerset Public Health Leaders are encouraging people to enjoy the event safely – get tested before you attend, keep your distance while you’re there, wear a mask in crowded areas and do not attend if you feel unwell.”
“Police will be present at the event. We encourage parents/carers with concerns about their child’s safety in the community to visit Advice to parents and carers on keeping children safe from abuse and harm – GOV.UK.”
“If anyone has specific intelligence, please get in touch with the Police directly by calling 101 or report online www.avonandsomerset.police.uk/report.”
