Long protest is over

According to The Guardian newspaper, it was the longest occupation of a power plant in the UK, and man did it feel like it.

I’d like to take this opportunity to remind people that it wasn’t just 21 protesters who spent a week in the freezing, autumn weather camped out at West Burton Power Station for a cause.

I was the Incident Commander on the ground and one of a number of police officers, as well as the police dogs and police helicopter, who monitored the incident at the scene 24/7. Our cause? To bring the protest to a peaceful conclusion as swiftly as possible without compromising anyone’s safety.

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Policing this protest not only forced us to put aside our other duties and personal plans, we also had to make sure our regular shifts were covered by others so that other areas of the Notts community were not unduly affected. I’d personally like to acknowledge those at the scene and those who picked up the slack for their commitment and patience during this time.

It was a tough slog but I’m pleased to say that the protest did come to an end peacefully with all 21 protestors, none of whom were from Notts, voluntarily descending from the 300ft-high chimneys safely. They were arrested on suspicion of aggravated trespass and bailed pending further enquiries.

In other news, don’t forget the Rural Crime Summit at 2pm on Wednesday 19 November 2012 at the Newark Showground, with drinks from 1pm. This is an opportunity for residents in more rural, agricultural areas to speak with local officers in a bid to direct policing and learn more about how to prevent crime. To register your attendance email [email protected]

Why not go the extra mile and join us as a volunteer. We are recruiting to our Special Constabulary. Those interested in becoming a Special can attend a pre-recruitment awareness event. To find out when the next session takes place contact Notts Police on 101 extension 800 2429 or visit www.nottinghamshire.police.uk and follow the ‘Special Constables’ link.