Policing operation begins as thousands arrive for 2021 F1 British Grand Prix

A four-day policing operation begins today (Thursday, July 15) at Silverstone as one of the country’s largest sporting events, the 2021 F1 British Grand Prix, returns to Northamptonshire.

More than 325,000 people are expected to arrive at the circuit over the weekend with 110,000 in attendance for Sunday’s main race.

Today (July 15), specialist search officers and dogs have been in and around the circuit, in grandstands and campsites, to ensure race-goers have a safe and enjoyable time.

Chief Inspector Tom Thompson, the event commander for Northamptonshire Police, said: “Spectators are already starting to arrive at the circuit for this year’s F1 British Grand Prix and Northamptonshire Police is working with the event organisers to keep them as safe as possible.

“This event is one of the biggest sporting events in the country and a lot of planning goes into the policing operation every year.

“However, although we are very experienced in the policing of this event, this doesn’t mean we are complacent. The security measures put in place by the event organisers are as stringent as ever and anyone thinking of taking advantage of the race weekend to commit a crime is highly likely to be caught.”

Officers are also warning anyone thinking of flying a drone over the circuit this weekend that their activity will be quickly curtailed.

Chief Inspector Thompson, said: “Drones are prohibited throughout the race weekend and the Civil Aviation Authority has imposed a flight restriction for the entirety of the Grand Prix period.

“The circuit has security measures in place to identify and stop anybody attempting to fly a drone and they will be robustly investigated.

“I also recommend racegoers take a look at our crime prevention tips and do all they can to prepare for their visit.

“Finally, the public can help us keep the event safe by being vigilant for anyone who looks out of place or suspicious, by reporting it to us on the 101 number, or in an emergency 999.”

Despite resources being deployed to Silverstone, the public can be reassured that policing across Northamptonshire is unaffected.

Follow @NorthantsPolice on Twitter or ‘like’ Northamptonshire Police on Facebook for up-to-date information during the weekend.