There was no terrorist threat for National Cherry Festival say Police

Police and The Young Witness fielded calls from locals leading up to the festival expressing concerns about attending the weekend’s festival.

Detective Inspector Scott Wilkinson said Police always take inquiries from the public seriously but received no credible terrorist threats.

“The NSW Police received no credible threat in relation to any terrorist activity associated with the 2017 National Cherry Festival taking place in Young last weekend,” he said.

“There was no terrorist threat and absolutely nothing to do with bombs or anything like that.

“We undertook extensive risk assessment and planning in conjunction with the Hilltops Council and we implemented a number of measures to ensure public safety.

“We had a heightened Police presence which was associated with normal policing duties that the public would expect at an event like this.”

Detective Inspector Wilkinson said he was pleased people felt comfortable and were able to come and enjoy the festival.

“All we asked is that people followed the normal rules and acted accordingly as far as responsible behaviour in public places was concerned,” he said.

“People seemed to be responsible with their consumption of alcohol and were mindful that all anybody wanted to do was to have a good time and enjoy the festival.

“Overall people were very well behaved during the festival with only a few minor incidents reported. We seized some fireworks from a 45 year old male from Young and there was a drug driving arrest.”