Anti-drone measures to be deployed at Hull Fair

Equipment will be used to try and stop drones from flying over Hull Fair without permission, Humberside Police said.

The force said a temporary airspace restriction will be in place over the Walton Street site and surrounding area when the event starts next month.

Ch Insp Derek Hussain said "counter drone equipment" would allow police "to detect drones and locate the people flying them".

He added: "There is no specific threat to the fair, but we will be prepared for any eventuality."

Hussain, silver commander for the policing operation, said flying within the restricted zone would constitute a criminal offence and put people at risk.

"Hull Fair is a much-loved event that brings hundreds of thousands of people into the city, and keeping them safe is our priority," he said.

"This temporary restriction gives us an extra layer of protection over the fairground and the crowds attending."

The restriction will be in place at various times from 9 to 17 October.

Anyone wishing to fly a drone within the restricted area must first obtain permission from Aerial Defence Ltd, which is managing the airspace on behalf of the event, Hull City Council said.

Deputy leader Jackie Dad said the fair has been going for more than 700 years and officials want visitors to enjoy it safely.

"We are pleased to have worked with Humberside Police, the Civil Aviation Authority and Aerial Defence Ltd to put this restriction in place, and we thank residents and drone users for their co-operation."

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