Seven hospitalised after Boardmasters incident

A number of festivalgoers were taken to hospital after a crowd collapse at the UK’s Boardmasters over the weekend.

Held in Newquay, Cornwall, from 7-11 August, the event featured acts such as Chase & Status, Sam Fender and Stormzy, backed by Courteeners, Becky Hill, The Streets, Leftfield, Tom Odell, Nia Archives, Declan McKenna, Maisie Peters, Cat Burns and Mahalia.

The “isolated incident” took place on the Superstruct-backed festival’s The Point stage on Friday (9 August) during a performance by DJ Sammy Virji, whose set was cancelled and the stage closed temporarily as a result.

Organisers say seven people were transferred to hospital with “minor injuries”, but Boardmasters otherwise continued as normal, adding that “experienced pit management and security teams” were in place at the event “with robust medical and welfare provision including highly experienced and trained medical, welfare and safeguarding staff”.

“We were notified following a crowd collapse at Boardmasters music festival which left a small number of attendees injured”

A statement by Devon and Cornwall Police, given on Saturday, read: “We were notified following a crowd collapse at Boardmasters music festival in Newquay on Friday 9 August which left a small number of attendees injured.

“The injured parties were treated on-site by medical staff and a small number were taken to hospital to be checked over for minor injuries.

“Contrary to speculation, we can confirm that there have been no deaths as a result of this incident. This is an isolated incident and the festival continues.”

The festival’s capacity was increased from 53,000 to 58,000 this year after its licensing application was partially accepted by the local council.

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