Report Crimes by SMS

The UK police are offering visitors to a music concert the opportunity to report crimes by SMS. Staffordshire Crimestoppers says that the SMS service has been introduced to appeal to young people but it also has practical benefits - allowing festival-goers to send information without being overheard and overcoming potential mobile server problems caused by the undulating terrain of the country estate.

Under the banner "Safe and Sound", the charity will be making itself known with a series of posters around the site and cards featuring safety tips that will be handed to music lovers as they enter the venue. They feature a design which sums up the festival spirit - a relaxed weekend under canvas - and highlights both the 0800 555111 phone number and text line.

Information passed to Crimestoppers during the event will be immediately assessed and officers deployed where necessary. The service will be available on-site from Friday 15 August when campers first arrive, until they depart the following Monday (18). The text line will only operate during the event but information can be given before and after the weekend via the anonymous crime line.

Crimestoppers co-ordinator DC Marie Hyden said that Crimestoppers provided a "no hassle" alternative to reporting crime.

"Most festival-goers don't want their weekend interrupted by having to report things to the police and having statements taken. We understand that but we still want their information and Crimestoppers gives them that one stop shop.

The V2003 music festival, being held simultaneously at Weston Park, Staffordshire and Hylands Park, Chelmsford, Essex is sponsored by Virgin, of Virgin Mobile fame."

Posted to the site on 18th August 2003