Cheese rolling: Crowds gear up for annual Cooper’s Hill races in Gloucestershire

The emergency services have said they will not attend this year’s event, but will respond to emergency calls if needed.

In a statement, Tewkesbury Advisory Group, which advises on safety for events, has asked for the organisers to work with them to create a safety plan for future races.

They said of last year’s event: “A number of
people suffered medical episodes and injuries, including broken ankles,
concussion, broken leg, breathing difficulties and a suspected seizure.

“Six
people were taken to Gloucestershire Royal Hospital by land ambulances.

“Double-crewed
ambulances and rapid response vehicles needed a police escort to gain access to
the site, in order to clear a path through the crowds.

“This put a
strain on the resources of both Gloucestershire Constabulary and South West
Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust for a considerable time.”