Beds FRS supports Bedford River Festival

The Bedford River Festival is back on Saturday 20 and Sunday 21 and this year, Bedfordshire Fire and Rescue Service’s innovative Vision Van will be on site for festival goers to experience the latest tool to improve road safety. 

A team of fire service personnel will be on-hand to discuss water and road safety, fire cadets, career opportunities, and a fire engine will be at the festival for the community to explore. Community Welfare Officers will also be in attendance to help people understand what they’re doing to keep the most vulnerable in our community safe, and answer questions about the Service’s newest community service. 

Matt Hyland, Station Commander Bedford and Harrold Fire Station, said: "We're incredibly excited to be able to support Bedford River Festival again to keep festival goers safe. But we are also excited to raise awareness of our new services and tools to improve road safety. 

“For anyone interested in the work of fire service this is a great opportunity for visitors to meet their fire service, ask questions and get advice about road, home and water safety. We look forward to welcoming festival goers.” 

The Vision Van uses dedicated hydraulic chairs inside the van which allows users to immerse themselves into a virtual reality scenario, to better understand the factors and risks that can lead to a driver being distracted or to lose concentration on the road.  

BFRS is attending alongside other blue light services to support the Festival and protect the community. The Service will be in the Blue Light Hub in Russell Park, off The Embankment, by the tennis courts, in vicinity of W3W last.sorters.tile. 

The Bedford River Festival aims to offer something for everyone, including live entertainment and activities such as a fantastic array of professional and local acts on the stages, the thrilling raft and dragon boat races, a funfair, sports demonstrations, food and drink, craft / gift / promotion stalls, family activities and so much more. 

It’s free to attend and offers numerous opportunities to participate across the 105 acre site, or you can simply enjoy a summer’s day with a vast array of activities and entertainment to keep you occupied. 

There are many activities planned on the river that families can watch, don’t miss the Dragonboat and raft races and the illuminated boat display. The Water Sports Arena, near the Butterfly Bridge, has all sorts of water-based activities.