RHS Event Charges

As you may recall, in May we started to discuss the charge imposed by Cheshire Constabulary which in 2010 amounted to over £66K. At an early stage I need to reiterate that this discussion is not to increase any profit for the RHS but stabilise the future of the show. Due to declining visitor numbers it is now heavily subsidised by the RHS, some £300,000 in 2009 which after major investment in features and similar reduction in infrastructure costs we hope to have halved in 2010.

Whilst there have been several minor reductions mostly due to the withdrawal of officers from within the Park, the staffing level has not changed in line with the reduction in vehicular traffic which equates to some 25%.

Over the past two years we have shied away from comparisons but eventually with an organization such as ours it is inevitable. An equivalent sized show in acreage- RHS Show Hampton Court, but with 165000 visitors and a similar car / coach ratio uses traffic wardens, Sergeants, constables and 2 solos and the cost is less that half. The offer to visit the show and review the strategy was initially accepted by Sgt xxxx and then declined which is unfortunate as good practice could have been shared.

Policing the highway is a monopoly with little ability for organisations such as the RHS to establish either value for money or the appropriate level of staffing. The RHS are duty bound to satisfy the Charity Commissioners that all costs are appropriate, particularly when a show is being subsidized. Under the circumstances we would wish to work with you in ensuring that these are appropriate and equitable. Attached is a matrix which I would ask you to complete, it is intended to assist in comparing costs relevant to Shows in Cheshire.

Whilst I have been involved in the Show for a few years my in depth knowledge of the external policing plan is limited, I would therefore appreciate a copy of the Operational Order together with maps and plans for 2010.

In accordance with section 1(1) (b) of the Act our response is provided below;

Can I first of all apologise for the confusion that led to the delay with this response.

Please find attached an Excel sheet showing the various matrix and charging regimes for the events held in Cheshire.

RHS Event Comparision

Please also find an explanatory letter from Chief Inspector related to the charges levied

Letter to Mr XXXX

The ACPO Guidance on Charging for Police Services (Paying the Bill 2) referred to in Mr xxxx's letter can be found on the following link:  ACPO Guidance

Further to our response to your request sent yesterday please find attached a copy of the Operational Order for the 2010 event.

The copy supplied does not include personnel and duties (Appendix A) and personal contact details of both police and none police persons. It does include maps (Appendix B - 1)

RHS Show at Tatton Park V2