TER CS Mark Williams

Police in The Capital are launching their annual operation to keep people safe during the Edinburgh Festival.

Operation Eastborough (formerly Operation Assure) will see high-visibility police patrols deployed throughout the city centre during the coming month to engage with the public, deter criminal activity and offer crime prevention advice to local residents and tourists alike.

With hundreds of thousands of people due to arrive in Edinburgh for the Festival, police are keen to highlight a number of safety messages to ensure no one is an easy target for criminals.

Issues such as keeping hold of personal belongings at all times, drinking responsibly and making sure you travel around the city safely will all be promoted during Operation Eastborough.

Throughout the operation, police will regularly interact with the public via social media. Festival goers are invited to follow the Capital’s policing account on Twitter – @EdinburghPolice and join in the discussions by using #EdFest.

Chief Superintendent Mark Williams, Divisional Commander for the City of Edinburgh said: “The Edinburgh Festival is the busiest and most exciting time of the year in the Capital.

“My officers will be out and about on foot and bike patrols to identify any issues that require a police response and to offer information and advice to the public so they can enjoy their Festival experience.

“In addition to our face-to-face approach the public can also contact us by dialling 101 for non emergency issues or follow us on Twitter or Facebook. We will be posting regular festival updates and vital crime prevention advice throughout the month ahead.

“Police in Edinburgh have a wealth of experience in policing major events and local officers and specialist resources will be targeting criminals to ensure residents and visitors have a safe and enjoyable time.

+ posts

John graduated from Telford College in 2010 with an HNC in Practical Journalism and since then he worked for the North Edinburgh News, The Southern Reporter, the Irish News Review and The Edinburgh Reporter. In addition he has been published in the Edinburgh Evening News and the Hibernian FC Programme.