Sussex Police issued a warning this morning to people planning to attend Green Pride in Preston Park, Brighton, today (Saturday 1 July).
The force said: “Sussex Police and Brighton and Hove City Council are urging anyone attending Green Pride in Brighton this weekend to do so peacefully – and also be mindful of the law.
“Police will have a noticeable presence at the festival. This is due to the anticipated increase in the number of people taking part this year – and any issues that arise will be dealt with appropriately and proportionately.
“Police in high-visibility clothing and protest liaison officers will be at the site to facilitate any lawful protest, enforce the law and safeguard the wider public.”
Chief Inspector Katy Woolford, of the Brighton Neighbourhood Response Team, said: “We are aware this event is growing in size and popularity and we will police it accordingly.
“We will actively engage with those in attendance and the relevant legislation will be used in the event of anyone found to be using illegal drugs.
“We will facilitate any lawful protest but open drug use or supply will not be tolerated.
“We will deal appropriately and proportionately with any offences of drug use or supply that we come across.
“This could include warnings and fixed penalty notices being issued, substances being confiscated and arrests being made.
“It’s also important to note that the park is used by a lot of local residents and visitors to the city – including families – and we would urge everyone to be mindful of others during the event.
“We are here to make sure everyone stays safe and to enforce the law.”
Sussex Police added: “Anyone with any concerns in relation to drug use should report it online.”
