FESTIVAL-GOERS have been on their best behaviour this year with a 15 per cent drop in crimes since 2013.

Despite more than 90,000 music-lovers packing into the festival grounds in Little John’s Farm for the four-day music festival police have recorded fewer crimes compared to last year.

A total of 125 crimes were reported at Reading Festival from Wednesday, August 20, week to Tuesday including one report of sexual assault, one report of rape, 17 drugs offences, one public order offence, one robbery of personal property and 92 thefts. This is a drop of 21 crimes since the festival last year where 146 crimes were reported.

A total of 51 people were arrested during the festival including three on suspicion of robbery, one on suspicion of fraud, and others for drugs possession and supply offences and public order offences.

A 31-year-old man from London and a 14-year-old boy from Surrey were arrested on suspicion of rape and both were bailed until Monday, October 6.

Chief Inspector Dave Parker, who was heading up the force’s operation at Reading Festival, said: “Reported crime is down by nearly 15 per cent compared to last year, including a drop in robberies from six incidents to one, and thefts from 102 to 92.

“Around half of the recorded thefts were pick-pocketing and the rest were thefts from tents.

“As officers patrolled the festival site over the weekend, they spoke to festival-goers to remind them of the importance of crime prevention and personal safety in order to try and deter thieves.

“We are pleased with the slightly lower levels of crime at Reading Festival this year, which has been a result of pro-active policing and the good work of on-site security.”