Police Dogs, Patrols and Crime Prevention: What to Expect at Boardmasters 2025

It’s time for Boardmasters 2025, and police have boots on the ground to help ensure the five-day festival runs safely and smoothly.

Superintendent Ben Asprey, the Police Commander for the festival, said:

“We work closely with the event organisers and our partner agencies to make sure everyone attending has a great experience, while staying safe and to keep crime to a minimum.”

Extra Patrols in Place

Attendees can expect to see officers on the festival site, around Newquay town centre, on the beaches and on the roads throughout the event.

Ben said:

“As part of our plans to safeguard festival goers and local residents, during the festival you’ll see officers within the site, extra patrols in Newquay town centre and on the beaches as well as Roads Policing Team out on the roads.”

The force’s Project Servator officers and police dogs have already been in the area in the lead-up to the event.

“This is a busy time of year in Devon and Cornwall with many visiting on holiday. We’ve therefore put dedicated resources in place for the festival to ensure the there is no disruption to routine policing across the force,” Ben added.

Crime Prevention Advice

Festivalgoers are being urged to follow some simple safety tips to protect themselves and others:

• See it, Say it, Stop it: Report anything that feels off to a steward, security, police officer or head to a welfare tent.

• Look after your drinks: Never leave drinks unattended and seek help if you think your drink has been spiked.

• Avoid tent thefts: Don’t leave valuables in your tent and check your car daily, leaving the glove box empty and open.

• Keep your essentials close: Always carry your phone, cards and cash. Boardmasters is a cashless event so large sums of money aren’t needed.

• Be respectful: If you’re heading off-site, be mindful of nearby communities. Avoid shouting, swearing and playing loud music that may distress others.

• Understand consent: Remember, sex without consent is rape. More information can be found at dc.police.uk/consent.

Ben added:

“If you’re attending the event, please be safe, look out for each other and stay hydrated. If you’re leaving the site, please also be respectful of our local communities. Do come and say hi if you see us around!”

What To Do If You Need Help

If you’re a victim of crime at the festival, report it straight away to stewards, security staff or police. For non-emergencies, visit the Devon and Cornwall Police website or call 101. In an emergency, always call 999.

Welfare tents, located in the main arena and campsites, are open 24 hours a day for support.

Boardmasters 2025 is expected to draw tens of thousands to Cornwall’s coast. With visible policing in place and key safety reminders, officers are urging everyone to stay aware, stay kind and stay safe.