The Voice of Spalding and South Holland
Souvenir hunters are being warned not to attempt to approach the scene of yesterday’s plane crash in Weston Hills.
As investigations continue into the cause of the accident, a cordon remains in place around the scene, staffed by Lincolnshire Police and Ministry of Defence officers, and people have been told if they breach the cordon they could find themselves in serious trouble.
Community Inspector Jim Tyner said: “It is very important that the forensic integrity of the scene is maintained in order that air crash investigators can carry out their work. Anyone discovered breaching the cordon could find themselves in serious trouble and any attempt by souvenir hunters to remove parts of the debris will be treated as theft.
“Neighbourhood officers are visiting Weston Hills Primary School this morning to speak to staff and pupils as yesterday’s events were clearly a traumatic time for them. Bobby Bear is coming along to give certificates of bravery to the children”.
Insp Tyner said Lincolnshire Police regularly practice with other agencies to prepare a response to major incidents.
He said: “In the event of an incident such as that at Weston Hills, prepared contingency plans are put in place. Interoperability with other agencies is well-rehearsed.
“Yesterday’s aircraft crash at Weston Hills was an exceptional event. All emergency services very quickly responded to the scene and early contact was made with the military command team. Local police officers very quickly had support from colleagues across the county.
“I am very proud of how all staff responded.
“For example, all my PCSOs and several PCs were at a training event. They immediately went home to collect their uniforms and returned for deployment.
“Of course an event such as this had an effect on our ability to respond to non-urgent incidents and I would like to thank people for their patience and understanding.
“I would also like to apologise to residents in Weston Hills for any inconvenience caused by the initial road blocks and diversions. These were put in place for people’s safety. The cordon has now been scaled back to reduce the impact on the village.”
