MERSEYSIDE Police have hailed their largest-ever operation, split between the Open Golf championship and the Tall Ships event, as a huge success.
More than 1m people visited the Tall Ships over four days, and 201,000 spectators made their way to Royal Birkdale, but there were only 67 arrests.
There were 19 arrests at the golf between Monday and Sunday – 13 for drunk and disorderly, four for theft, one bail warrant and one for possession of drugs. During the Tall Ships event, there were 48 arrests, largely for alcohol-related disorder.
Chief Superintendent Tony Doherty said: “We are delighted with the success of the two events and the good nature and behaviour of local residents and visitors.
“Most of the arrests were public order offences, levels of thefts and crime in the city centre were lower than some other regular weekends.
“This is our biggest event so far this year, and as a showcase event has been great for the Capital of Culture year.”
AN ELDERLY lady watching the Tall Ships Parade of Sail sparked a medical emergency when she had a heart scare in the middle of the Mersey.
She collapsed while on board the packed Snowdrop ferry.
The ferry was diverted to the Pier Head where the woman was treated by volunteers from the St John’s Ambulance.
