East Anglian security firm GSL Dardan is branching out with the launch of a new division.

The firm, which has more than 500 staff working across nine regional offices including Suffolk and Norfolk, has created an event security division to provide services including stewarding, traffic management, door supervision and specialist protection security.

Retired police detective Richard York has been appointed general manager of the new set-up, while former Norfolk Constabulary Chief Supt Adey Ewing, who is the firm’s technical consultant, has been instrumental in its development.

Mark Duffy, chief executive of GSL Dardan said: “The responsibility for the security and safety of customers attending events falls squarely on the shoulders of every event organiser. The increased risk of penalties posed by non-compliance with health and safety regulations within the venue and the ever increasing promotion of litigious action when a blameworthy incident occurs is a substantial risk for any organiser.”