THIRTY festival goers were taken to hospital over the duration of the annual music event V Festival which took place at Hylands Park, Chelmsford, over the weekend.

Saffron Walden Reporter: The polaris vehicle which was used to reach difficult to access casualties at V Festival.The polaris vehicle which was used to reach difficult to access casualties at V Festival. (Image: Archant)

The East of England Ambulance Service NHS Trust (EEAST) treated about 550 people over the course of the three days, with ailments ranging from broken ankles, chest pains, and an over indulgence of alcohol. The majority of people were treated and discharged from the scene, with just 30 people requiring transport to hospital.

Jon Moore, EEAST’s associate director for Emergency Operations (interim), said: “With approximately 90,000 people visiting the festival each day, it’s pleasing to see that only a small percentage of people required our help.

“One of the most common causes of illness was intoxication from alcohol, and there were also approximately 30 people suffering trauma injuries such as head injuries and knee. Some of the festival goers we treated were suffering from problems linked to underlying medical issues and a small number had fallen unconscious.

“For the most part it was a very successful event and we’re impressed with how well it was managed by everyone involved.

“We’d like to say a huge thank you to everyone who was involved in this event including the operational, control and support staff.”