Two people spotted with weapons at Bournville Festival as police probe disorder

Police investigations into disorder at Bournville Festival continue today (Monday, June 26) after the event was closed early due to disorder.

Officers said that two people were seen with weapons at the event at Cadbury Recreation Ground in front of the chocolate factory, off Bournville Lane in Birmingham, and a teenager reported being assaulted.

Security at the festival removed a large group of people believed to be responsible for the trouble. Families reacted with disappointment at the issues at the historic festival, which first took place in 1902 for the Coronation of King Edward VII.

It is renowned for its Maypole Dance and community events. The firework display was cancelled on Saturday as a result of the issues.

West Midlands Police said: “We received a call from security staff at Bournville Lane Festival to reports that two people had been spotted with weapons.Officers attended and carried out a joint walk through of the event alongside security staff.

“A teenager reported being assaulted following a disorder. A large group of people believed to have caused disorder were swiftly ejected from the event by security. The security team for the event took the decision to evacuate the site and close the event early. This decision was not made by the police.

“An investigation into the assault has been launched and enquiries are ongoing. Anyone with information is asked to get in touch by calling 101 or Live Chat via the West Midlands Police website quoting 20/551938/23.

A Bournville Village Festival statement read: “It was with great reluctance that we felt we had to cut the Festival short this evening.Sadly the behaviour of a small number of people placed the safety of festival attendees at serious risk. As we are responsible for the safety of everyone who attends, the only option was to clear the grounds.

“We are as frustrated and upset as anyone that what had been a wonderful festival was denied a fitting finale with the fireworks. We are deeply sorry for those of you who feel let down, but the decision was made purely with safety in mind.”