Policing in Warwickshire won’t be affected by Olympics, say police

Officers from the force will be working with police from Staffordshire, West Mercia and the West Midlands during Olympic football matches at the City of Coventry Stadium, as well as taking on duties in London and other parts of the country.

The force has also had to provide extra officers after private security firm G4S failed to provide enough staff.

Warwickshire Police Federation, which represents rank and file officers, last week said it was concerned by officers missing rest days as well as having leave stopped during the Games.

But Deputy Chief Constable Neil Brunton has said normal policing in Warwickshire will not be affected.

He said: “The policing plan for the Olympics, both at a national level and regionally, has been developed over a number of years, with the detailed schedule being in place for many months.

“In order to fulfil our commitment to the Olympic policing plan, while ensuring it is ‘business as usual’ within Warwickshire we put a leave embargo in place, and have also cancelled non-essential training. Our alliance with West Mercia Police also provides increased resilience to both forces. The result is that we have an optimum number of resources available to police the county and for Olympic duties.”

Mr Brunton pointed to successful policing of the Olympic torch relay, which drew much larger crowds than expected, as proof that the force would be able to cope.

He added: “Policing the Olympic Games will be a once in a lifetime experience for many and Warwickshire Police is proud to be part of the team that will be showcasing the best of British Policing to the world.”

Police have urged those attending football matches at the City of Coventry Stadium to follow simple tips to make the day go smoothly.

The games start on Friday, with spectators from around the world arriving stadium, usually known as the Ricoh Arena.

· Plan your journey and leave plenty of time to get to the venue. There will be extra traffic as you get nearer to your venue and there are likely to be delays. Many people will be unfamiliar with the area. Visit www.london2012.com/spectators/travel/ to find the best route.

· Be aware of parking restrictions near to the stadium. A free shuttle bus will run from Coventry Railway Station to the City of Coventry Stadium, further details on how to get to the stadium are available on the following links for travel and maps

· Be prepared for security checks when you arrive at the venue. Check arrival times for recommended arrival times.

· Bring as little as possible with you. The more you bring with you, the longer it will take to get through security.

· Read the lists of prohibited and restricted items before you set off. You cannot bring in liquids over 100ml – including water. You will be able to buy refreshments inside the stadium, and you can bring your own food – so long as it fits inside your bag.

· Advisory notices have been in place on main routes in and around Coventry for some weeks, but if your journey to work takes you near to the City of Coventry Stadium be prepared for delays on match days and consider using alternative routes.

· Local radio will carry travel reports, and West Midlands Police and Warwickshire Police will be issuing up to the minute information on social network sites including Twitter. Check out @warkspolice and @wmpolice

For all London2012 Olympic information visit: www.london2012.com/