Police Issue Advice for Busy Sidmouth Air Show Crowds
Police in Sidmouth are gearing up for a busy Bank Holiday weekend and crowds are expected to flock to the coastal town to join in the fun events arranged for locals and holidaymakers.
The famous Royal Air Force Red Arrows and other aerial display teams will be performing over the sea on Friday 27 August from 5pm (subject to weather conditions) and drivers are being warned to allow extra time for journeys and to expect very busy road conditions and car parks.
As well as all the usual District Council Car parks at the Ham, Roxborough, Mill Street and Manor Road, further additional car parking will be made available at various locations including Sidmouth Rugby & Cricket Clubs and Redwood Road and will be clearly sign posted with parking marshalls on hand. A number of road closures and parking restrictions have also been confirmed to help maintain traffic flow and ensure spectator safety.
Police are reminding visitors not to leave pets in hot cars, to have water and suncream available, as well as a fully charged mobile phone and make sure they have a plan with family and friends to choose a meeting point in case young children get lost.
Inspector Phil Gray, who heads up the Rural East Devon police sector, said “We work with partner agencies such as the council in preparation for big events like this and have safety and traffic management plans in place to make sure all goes smoothly.
“We want everyone to have a great time when they visit Sidmouth and we would urge some common sense to make the most of the busy regatta airshow. This event is usually a big success and levels of anti-social behaviour and other crime are normally low. My team of officers will be out in the town chatting to people, keeping everyone safe and checking if anyone needs our help. If you see us please come up and say hello.”
Following the airshow on Friday, the entertainment continues on Saturday 26 August with a Rotary Club Treasure Hunt, sailing club races, street theatre and fireworks and on Sunday 27 August spectators can enjoy Gig Club racing, a beach clean and more sailing club competitions.
Organisers of the Sidmouth Regatta Airshow are requesting that spectators and in particular, boat, jet ski and kayak/paddleboard owners take note of a temporary Air Display Water Safety Zone (ADWSZ) which will be in force on the water offshore of Sidmouth Beach. No vessels will be permitted in this area between 4.30pm and the end of the display. The ADWSZ will be marked by coloured buoys and patrolled by Sidmouth Lifeboat and associated craft.
For more information visit Sidmouth Regatta and Airshow build up continues - Sidmouth Town Council
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