Police have pledged rigorous action against any criminals at this weekend's V2002 pop festival.

Extra officers including special constables and traffic wardens have been drafted in to help at the event which is likely to be a sell-out.

Essex Police is gearing itself up as nearly 150,000 music lovers converge on Hylands Park, Chelmsford.

And the new police penalty (on-the-spot fines for anti-social behaviour) could be used if needed.

Police will impose temporary speed limits of 30mph on sections of the A1016 and A414 from Friday afternoon until Monday morning

Sgt Chris White, policing coordinator, said he wanted the weekend to be crime-free so that everyone had a good time.

"The festival has always been a fantastic occasion for both the police and the public.

"Criminals are warned that the extensive array of CCTV cameras will combat their actions, with robust action being take against offenders."

For full details of the line-up at this year's festival and to give your view on this year's V festival visit www.v2002.info

Published Friday August 16, 2002

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