VISITORS TO THE SUNDERLAND ILLUMINATIONS ARE BEING THANKED for their patience with the security measures put in place in line with all large public events.
The popular annual event attracts large numbers of visitors to the city, and Sunderland City Council has been working closely with Northumbria Police throughout the planning stage to make sure that all appropriate security measures are in place.
Sunderland City Council Portfolio Holder for Public Health, Wellness and Culture Cllr John Kelly said:”With police advice we have worked with our community safety partners to put in place a number of security measures, proportionate to the size of the event and expected crowds.
“This includes a team of trained stewards on site, appropriate bag checks at the entrance points to Roker Park, and constant communication and liaison with police officers to identify and address any emerging issues.
“There are also traffic management measures in place but the road along the seafront will remain open until the closing evening on 5 Nov, when larger crowds are expected on Cliffe Park to enjoy the fireworks display.”
Chief Inspector Chris Grice from Southern Area Command said: “We have been working closely with the organisers, Sunderland City Council, to prepare for the large numbers of visitors who will be coming along to enjoy the Sunderland Illuminations.
“Both the priority for us and the organisers is to ensure the safety of all those who attend and suitable security arrangements have been out in place.
” We want people to come and attend events such as the Sunderland Illuminations, and we work in partnership with the local authority to assess what measures need to be put in place for their event.”
“We will have additional officers in the area some of the officers members of the public see on patrol may be armed, they are there to reassure our local communities, they are not there in response to any increased threat. Please stop and speak them.”
If anyone sees anything suspicious or out of the ordinary they can report it to a police officer on patrol, or ring Northumbria Police on 101. In an emergency or if a crime is taking place ring 999.