A FUN fair in Wem earlier this month was closed earlier than planned due to serious incidents – including sexual assaults – in previous years.

The event – which was held on the Recreation Ground – coincided with the annual Wem Carnival on Saturday, September 3.

But local police have now confirmed the fair closed at 7pm, earlier than planned, after they raised concerns with the town council prior to the event.

Sergeant Tim Lever from North Shropshire Safer Neighbourhood Teams (SNT) said in previous years there have been serious assaults, including some on police officers.

But he added that only a minority of troublemakers were spoiling it.

He explained: "We suggested that the fair close earlier due to incidents that have occurred in the town when the carnival has taken place previously.

"Unfortunately in the past (pre-Covid) there have been a number of incidents linked to the Wem Carnival including disorder, serious and sexual assaults and also assaults on police.

"It appeared that it attracted a minority of troublemakers intent on spoiling it for the majority."

OTHER NEWS:

Sergeant Lever also spoke about how the fun fair had used up police resources and that he thought most people understood the decision.

He said: "It has also meant a disproportionate allocation of police resources to the event compared with the rest of North Shropshire, which also requires police coverage.

"This in turn has reduced our ability to respond to other incidents across the county and protect those involved from harm.

"Historically and generally hours of darkness are linked to an increase in demand on the police which is why the earlier time of 7pm was suggested.

"Ultimately we want people to enjoy a family friendly event safely, free from disorder and crime.

"Due to this we felt we had a responsibility to raise our concerns and suggest that the fair closes earlier this year.

"I am aware that a very small minority disagreed with this decision however it appears that the wider community understood the reason behind it."

Sergeant Lever said no crime or disorder was reported this year and felt the early closure of the fair helped create a family friendly event.

He said: "I’m happy to say that no crime or disorder was reported in Wem during this year’s event.

"From what I saw and from the lack of reported incidents it appears to me that the earlier closure of the fair had the desired effect of creating a family friendly event which could be enjoyed by everyone.

"No-one was assaulted, the atmosphere was friendly and everyone went home safely.

"We will be making the same representations for future events."