Visitors from far and wide are arriving in Ayr today (Saturday 21st April 2018) ahead of the Scottish Grand National event at Ayr Racecourse.
The second day of racing in the annual festival gets underway this afternoon and we will have officers on patrol in and around the venue, working with event staff to ensure the safety of visitors and minimise disruption to the local community.
Additional officers will also be deployed in Ayr and Prestwick town centres to encourage responsible drinking and to support staff in licensed premises to reduce instances of disorder.
Chief Inspector Gary I’Anson, South Ayrshire Area Commander commented “We are working with the event organisers and our partner agencies to ensure a safe and enjoyable environment for everyone attending the Scottish Grand National and to minimise disruption to the local community.
“Additional officers are on duty to support staff at the venue and will be on patrol in the town centres supporting staff in licensed premises to ensure customers are drinking responsibly.
“We are encouraging people to plan their travel to and from the events and to drink responsibly. Incidents of antisocial behaviour or violence will not be tolerated.
“Residents, and visitors are reminded that the area will be very busy and to factor this into their travel plans for the weekend.”
General safety reminders:
- plan your journey to ensure safe travel to and from the event. - stay with friends or family and agree a meeting point should you become separated. - avoid leaving with strangers. - drink responsibly. - look after your bags, mobile phone and other valuables. - make sure you have enough money left at the end of the night to pay for your journey home.
Anyone with concerns during the event should speak with event staff or Police Officers on patrol. To report a crime please call 101 or dial 999 in an emergency.