Rutland showground bosses have again apologised for the disruption being caused by a 'minority' of people attending a Christian Festival.

The Rutland Agricultural Society has issued a statement concerning what it has branded the 'St Hilda's Church Event at the Rutland Showground .'

The statement from society CEO Kevin Tighe and chairman David Wood came as police reported arrests in the area, following a range of disruption reported by residents on social media.

They have led to interventions from Oakham Town Council, Rutland County Council, Alicia Kearns MP and for police to step up patrols in the area, including the use of drones.

The statement said: "The Rutland Agricultural Society had accepted a booking of its showground site on the edge of Oakham from St Hilda's Church Darlington to run a Christian Festival.

"This outdoor event is self-contained using no on-site facilities other than a set of fields of around 45 acres.

"It is being managed by 90 pastors supported by a team of 40 stewards. In addition, we have a team of security staff on site.

"We required the event organisers produce an event risk assessment which covered a with a range of issues including the management of Covid risks. To the best of our knowledge this is being implemented.

"In addition, we asked the event organisers to complete and submit to

the Council an event notification."

The statement continued: "The event which has around 1500 adults and children in their own motor homes/caravans has also attracted a minority who have been causing a disproportionate amount of antisocial activity.

"We are working closely with the organisers and liaising with the authorities to

minimise and contain this antisocial activity."

It added: "We regret the disruption that has been caused and apologise to all those affected."