CUMBRIA Police is ready for the return of Kendal Calling this weekend after months of planning.

Police are currently in attendance on site at Lowther Deer Park, with drugs dogs carrying out strategic sweeps of the grounds and surrounding areas.

Read more:Kendal Calling: Headliners, how to get to the festival and where to park

According to the force, this type of proactive activity has been shown to assist in reducing drug related offences at events in previous years.

This year’s event will see both drugs and general-purpose dogs onsite, with police saying they are on site to help keep attendees safe and deter offending.

Police, festival organisers, security teams and other key agencies are now on site, putting into fruition, months of close partnership work which has focused on the safety of attendees and the public and providing a positive festival experience for revellers.

Inspector Kim Brown, public order and public safety bronze commander for Kendal Calling said:

“We are really pleased to support Kendal Calling’s return since 2019 and know how exited people are to be coming back and enjoying live music together.

“Month of planning between police, festival organisers, security teams and key agencies have taken place behind the scenes, with the safety of attendees always the priority.

“This year, much like years past, we have a fantastic team supporting the event including Special Constables, officers and our dog section.

“For anyone attending the festival for the first time or looking for festival safety advice, you can find information on Kendal Calling’s website, the Constabulary’s website, and festivalsafe.com. All of these sites have helpful practical information on areas such as personal safety and what to pack.

“You can also follow Cumbria Police on social media where you can find up-to-date information on areas including: personal safety advice, travel disruption, local policing activity and our police dogs activity.

“I hope everyone as a safe, fun and an enjoyable festival.”

Top advice for a safer festival:

1.    Don’t take irreplaceable valuables on site

2.    Only bring drugs medically prescribed to you onto site and carry your prescriptions in case you are searched.

3.    If you see anything suspicious or feel uncomfortable on-site report it to an officer, event security or the event staff.

4.    Bring an old mobile phone and a charging pod - there are also charging bays on site.

5.    Do not leave your drinks unattended as a precaution.

6.    Arrange a rendezvous site each night with your friends, and make sure you all get back to your tents safely.

7.    Look out for one another