Seymour - the new Essex Police mascot - will be keeping an eye on music lovers this weekend as Chelmsford plays host to the annual V Festival.

The dancing eye mascot is being used in the run up to and during the V Festival to encourage festival-goers to keep an eye on their belongings, their friends and how much they drink during the two-day event at Hylands Park.

The festival has a reputation for being one of the safest on the summer calendar and officers will be working to ensure it remains that way.

Policing co-ordinator, Chief Supt Andy Prophet, said: “Anyone who has been to V in Essex will know that there is a real community atmosphere and this is why it’s sold out each year. People come from all over the country to see some top-class acts and enjoy the summer sun in relaxed surroundings.

“However, there are also those who come with the aim of selling drugs, peddling dodgy merchandise and stealing belongings.”

Seymour was created by the graphic designers and TV unit at Essex Police and a short film has been made - see the YouTube footage here - to encourage festival goers to stay safe.

The footage will also be shown on the big screens at the festival on Saturday, August 17 and Sunday, August 18 to remind festival goers not to let their mobile telephones, cameras, wallets and other valuables out of their sight.

Seymour will also be popping up on the Essex Police Twitter and Facebook channels to offer advice.

Anyone who does spot criminal activity at Hylands Park is encourage to contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.

Chief Supt Prophet added: “The festival has always been a fantastic occasion for both the police and the public. Criminals are warned that the extensive array of CCTV cameras will combat their actions, with strong measures being taken against them. These people should become our customers, not innocent music lovers, so don’t let these criminals spoil it.”

Chelmsford’s district policing commander, Chief Insp Steve Ditchburn, said: “There’s lots of advice on our website so please take a few minutes to read it before you head to the festival and keep an eye out for the tips and updates we’ll be pushing out via social media over the course of the weekend.”

Road policing officers will be enforcing temporary speed limits along roads surrounding the site including the A414 Three-Mile Hill with increased patrols targeting drink-drivers.

Council employees will ensure parking restrictions in nearby streets and grass verges are adhered to and motorists not visiting Hylands Park are advised to avoid the area and instead find alternative routes in and around Chelmsford.

Anyone who experiences crime at the festival can report it to Essex Police at the mobile police station or by calling 101 or 999.

For crime prevention advice and regular updates about the festival, follow Essex Police on Twitter @essexpoliceuk or like us on Facebook www.facebook.com/essexpoliceuk