We are conscious that you and your staff may be concerned about the ongoing national situation regarding organised ‘gatherings’ and whether this may occur in some form locally – there is no reputable information at the time of writing from Herts Police or the local authorities to suggest that there are planned protests, riots or anything of said nature happening in the borough of Watford today or in the near future (17:30PM Wednesday 7 August 2024).
There is an influx of misinformation being circulated on social media – the only source that you should refer to for information is Hertfordshire Constabulary, Watford Borough Council and Watford Town Centre BID. You can be kept informed of any updates by visiting https://www.herts.police.uk/news/hertfordshire/news/ or by following @HertsPolice on Facebook or X (formerly Twitter).
The latest update from Hertfordshire Constabulary is outlined below:
“I would like to reassure Hertfordshire residents and businesses that your neighbourhood policing teams are here alongside you, working hard in the community to reassure people and keep them safe,” said Chief Superintendent Ruth Dodsworth, of Hertfordshire Constabulary.
“Hertfordshire is a safe county and we want people to feel safe to go about their lives as normal. Across the country policing is always prepared to tackle any problems and Hertfordshire is no different.”
She added: “We are aware of rumours and speculation circulating online which reference possible ‘gatherings’ in Hertfordshire today.
Disinformation has been a huge driver of the appalling violence we have seen across the country, and we know a lot of those taking part are doing so in direct response to what they’ve read online.
Please refrain from sharing these ‘gathering’ details in any way as it may only serve to increase fear and tension.”
We are liaising with the police and local authorities on a regular basis, the Watford Town Centre BID team will endeavour to circulate any information with businesses as quickly as possible should any reputable intel come to our attention.
If you come across any disinformation or witness criminal behaviour, please don’t hesitate to reach out to the police. You can report online at https://orlo.uk/JZi9S, call 101, or dial 999 if it’s an emergency.
Kind Regards,
The Watford Town Centre BID Team
(Kara, Glen, Fiona, John)