Policing operation for The Open golf championship - one month to go

A police tactic that aims to disrupt criminal activity and encourage vigilance will be in place for this year’s 150th Open Championship in Fife.

This week marks one month to go until the Championship happens in July at the Old Course, St Andrews.

Project Servator is used by police forces across the UK and forms a part of the policing operation for the event. It brings together a number of key organisations involved in the Championship such as The R&A (organisers), British Transport Police, Fife Council, stewards, security and on-site staff as well as the local community.

The tactic focuses on building a network of vigilance to disrupt a range of criminal activity, including terrorism, and encourages people to report suspicious or unusual activity. It’s boosted by police resources such as dogs, horses, armed officers, plain clothed officers and road policing. Specially trained Project Servator uniformed officers will be engaging with local businesses and those attending the event by handing out leaflets and explaining how people can play their part.

Chief Superintendent Derek McEwan, divisional commander for Fife and police lead for The Open, said:

“The 150th Open will be one of the biggest events in Scotland this year and it should be a historic occasion for the community and golf fans across the world.

“We want people to understand what Project Servator is, be reassured by our visible presence and have the confidence to report anything that doesn’t feel right.

“Everyone has a part to play and we will have eyes and ears everywhere.

“Police Scotland has an enviable reputation around the world for the policing of major events including the Commonwealth Games, previous Open Championships and COP26.

“Our planning for this has been ongoing for several months alongside the organisers and other key partners as we look to help The R&A deliver a safe and secure event.”

Johnnie Cole-Hamilton, Executive Director – Championships at The R&A, said: “We are working closely with the police, our security advisers and the authorities to ensure that everyone coming to St Andrews enjoys a safe and memorable experience of attending The 150th Open.

“Project Servator is an important part of the police operations for the Championship and so making everyone attending and the wider community aware of its aims is crucial to reducing the possibility of criminal activity and suspicious or unusual behaviour happening in and around the venue.”

The 150th Open Championship will take place from Sunday 10 – 17 July 2022.

To find out more about Project Servator, click this link: https://www.scotland.police.uk/advice-and-information/counter-terrorism/project-servator/