Armed officers pose for pics at Download

Police say festival goers felt safer after security was stepped up in Castle Donington after recent terror attacks.

Firearms officers drafted into increase security at Download Festival in Castle Donington posed for photos at the weekend as police confirm the event was "low crime".

The rock festival, which was held at Donington Park between Friday 9th June and Sunday 11th June, was the first major festival in the country following the terrorist attacks in Manchester and London. Armed officers were on patrol throughout the weekend. 

Superintendent Martyn Ball said: “Although it is too soon to give definite crime figures, early indications are that reported crime is very low. Officers worked hard day and night patrolling car parks and campsites and they talked to hundreds of rock fans, swopping hats, giving ‘hi fives’ and having their picture taken."

Many of the armed officers on site were invited to have photographs taken with visitors to the music event. 

“They were happy to have their picture taken many times which was a new experience for the usually camera shy firearms officers!" 

Martyn Ball continued: “I’d also like to thank local people living in Castle Donington as there is no doubt an event this size does have an impact on their village particularly in terms of traffic.