Suffolk Police are urging festival-goers to consider their safety and the security of their possessions ahead of this year's Latitude Festival.

The vast majority of reported incidents at last year's event were theft-related and officers are keen to ensure crime is kept to a minimum this year.

Revellers are also being asked to look out for their friends, drink responsibly and keep in mind the issue of sexual consent.

Detective Superintendent David Cutler said: 'The festival has become a well established fixture on the Suffolk calendar and, as such, we want everyone to enjoy it.

'We urge everyone attending to be mindful of the security of their valuables as there will be a very small minority who will look to exploit those who have their guard down.

'Have fun at the festival, but stay vigilant, be aware of your surroundings and stay safe. If you have any concerns, please approach one of our officers or a member of the event staff who will be happy to help.'

Police and crime commissioner Tim Passmore added: 'Latitude shines a fantastic spotlight on our beautiful county, attracting more and more visitors each year and the impact this has on the local economy is hugely important.

'As with any large event of this nature, there is always a danger that visitors enjoying themselves forget basic crime prevention and make themselves vulnerable.

'I would encourage festival-goers to take care of themselves, look out for friends and be aware of what's going on around them. If you can avoid it, don't take anything of value with you, keep your valuables safe, enjoy the festival and make sure your memories of Latitude 2018 are all happy ones.'

Suffolk Police's safety advice is as follows:

• Stay with your friends and look out for each other.

• Moderate your alcohol consumption. Overdo it and you'll be less aware and less likely to spot dangers. Have a glass of water between drinks and pace yourself.

• Be careful. Festivals give you the opportunity to meet new friends but going off alone with people who you've just met may lead you into situations you don't want to be in.

• No means no. Too much alcohol and the heat of the moment can lead to issues of consent. Don't take advantage of situations that are alcohol-fuelled or the consequences could be arrest, a court appearance and a prison term.

• Don't bring large sums of cash, lots of credit/debit cards, or lots of valuables with you. Only bring what you need and keep it with you at all times.

• If you arrive by car, don't leave anything valuable in your vehicle.

• Be mindful of the activities of people around you when watching performances.

• Keep mobile phones secure. It's easy for a pickpocket to remove these types of items from a pocket or bag in a crowd without you noticing.