V Festival: Over 680 people treated by ambulance staff so far

Despite the weather, the numbers requiring medical attention at this year's festival at Weston Park have risen only slightly and those needing hospital treatment has actually fallen.

Since the gates opened o Friday, 681 patients have been treated, yet only 11 have required onward transportation to hospital.

A West Midlands Ambulance spokesman said: "As you would expect, injuries from slips trips and falls have featured heavily, but other reasons for accessing medical help have been on-going conditions, and injuries sustained as a result of having drunk too much alcohol.

"With the weather looking set to be sunny for much of the day before the chance of more rain this evening, we would urge those heading to Weston Park today to be prepared for all conditions."

Supt. Elliott Sharrard-Williams, commander of the Staffordshire Police operation at V Festival said: "Festival goers have been in high spirits and well behaved at Weston Park since the gates opened. Overnight officers dealt with a few incidents but our role has mainly been about making sure people are safe and helping people find their way around the site."

Since the gates opened police, supporting the security operation, have made 15 arrests. Nine in connection with drugs offences as a result of the robust search and policing operation. The majority of those arrested have been questioned by detectives and bailed pending further investigation including the results of forensic analysis of substances recovered.

The heavy rain overnight means that the site is quite muddy in places and festival goers are urged to take care. Police officers from Staffordshire Police Road Crime Team are on patrol around the area surrounding Weston Park and day visitors attending the Festival today should follow the yellow traffic signs rather than their sat-nav as they head to the site.

Police officers, volunteers from the Staffordshire Special Constabulary and Police Community Support Officers are on patrol throughout the site to help everyone stay safe and enjoy the festival.

All motorists are urged to take extra care on the road around the area and use the dedicated pick up areas to ensure everyone stays safe. With so many leaving at the same time there will be delays leaving the car parks, so it will be important to be patient and follow the directions of the marshals and security staff.

Police say they will be will be carrying out drink and drug tests in the area.