Public feedback RockNess 2009
Below is a selection of responses from the public regarding the Policing of RockNess 09.
Sent: 15 June 2009 21:16
To: mbx-feedback
Subject: Review
Ok, I reviewed a few of the acts, but found the opportunity for feedback quite interesting.
I don't think I would have commented at all if I hadn't been genuinely impressed by what I saw.
Firstly, there was a sizeable, and noticeable police presence. Actually, as I was working, and mostly on my own throughout the weekend, I found this reassuring, as having attended many festivals in the past, I have seen how boisterousness can quickly become something more sinister.
The risk of the high-visibility strategy is the one that perhaps a feeling of suppression can be engendered, with patrons, however innocuous their behaviour, becoming quite conscious of being under scrutiny. This itself can collectively lower the mood, perhaps causing further potential for disturbance.
However, the police attending the event seemed to be under instruction to attend their duties with a fair degree of relaxation. I saw lots of them interacting with the crowd and posing for photographs, which was actually quite heartening. It certainly adds levity to the occasion, and adds to the perception of a festival being an occasion of joviality. It conveyed the message that they were there to reassure, rather than intimidate. It certainly made me smile every time I saw it happening, and I'm sure I was not the only one. Of the arrest incidents I saw, the officers involved remained calm, without untoward aggression (which alas, I have to say, is not always the case) which may have provoked a deterioration of the situation.
Naturally, I didn't see everything, but what I did observe I found to be excellent. All credit to the officers involved and I hope they enjoyed their assignment.
So, with that (and for what it's worth), you guys get my only five star review of the weekend :)
Sent: 15 June 2009 20:46
To: mbx-feedback
Subject: Rockness
Very well policed. I have been to a few festivals in the UK and this was by far the best presence I have seen. Its not always quality in numbers and I didnt witness ones incident of 'heavy-handedness' or disrespect shown to anyone attending. Which is more than I can say for some of the hired marshals at the event.
Keep up the good work.
Sent: 15 June 2009 19:23
To: mbx-feedback
Subject: Rockness 2009 Feedback
I saw your request for feedback on the policing of Rockness on the Telextext page of my TV today on my return from the festival
I have to say the policing was in my opinion excellent, the police at all times were very friendly whilst having a sufficient presence to maintain order and safety, They were approachible at alL times, and i saw them help people who were struggling to carry their tents etc, A Chief Inspector or Chief Constable, i saw regulary touring the campsite in a small 4x4type buggy, and kept a great rappore with the festival goers.
i honestly would give the police a well-dererved 10 out of 10, they played a pivatol role along with the security people, in making this the best run ad friendliest festival in the UK.
Sent: 15 June 2009 17:26
To: mbx-feedback
Subject: re. rockness
Hi,
Just to let you know that I thought the policing was at the right level to ensure a good atmosphere but also to feel safe. It was a good idea to search for drugs on admittance and this seemed to work in consideration of the reduced casualties that there were this year. Good work and well planned.
Sent: 15 June 2009 15:24
To: mbx-feedback
Subject: Rockness
Sir
My 16 year old son attended his first Rockness Event this year and came back home yesterday having had a positive experience. He said everything was well organised and that he felt safe throughout the event. He was aware of many police and security, both in uniform and non uniform. He was impressed with the on site hospital even though he didn’t need its services.
