Contribution by Vaughan Clarke

Comment by: Vaughan Clarke

Focus area: Volunteer events

Regulator concerned: Health and Safety Executive (HSE),Local Authority or Fire Authority

Comment:
Diamond Jubilee Event.

I have organised 5 previous major events in Petersfield, Hampshire. The paperwork for the Diamond Jubilee event was more than the previous 5 events added together. 8 of us had to pay to go on a ladder course, before we were allowed to put up the bunting in the Town. There was Risk Assessment after Risk Assessment, and there was even the suggestion that when we were in The Square (which has a road at each corner) that we should erect exit signs for the possibility of overcrowding. As a result of this experience none of us is prepared to organise another event in the Town. It is all very sad, especially as 15,000 attended the event on Mon 4th June. Our local MP [TEXT DELETED]  is aware of the problems we have faced.