LIBERATION DAY has simply become a drink-fest, according to a leading Town publican. Charlie Beardsley, licensee of the Thomas de la Rue, said that the party day was too big and had become too alcohol-focused.

‘There is too much drink on Liberation Day – for a lot of people that’s all it’s about and it should not be catering for one age group,’ he said.

‘We have become too liberated. I’m sure 99% had a great day but I don’t think the kids know what it’s about any more and it’s just a day for them to go out with one aim in mind. Many believe they can just walk around Town with a beer.’

Mr Beardsley closed his pub at about 9.30pm on Sunday following a fight involving about 10 people.

He said he had the support of the brewery and the police to stay closed, even though he could have reopened.

Police chief George Le Page admitted that a minority of people seemed to want to cause trouble at the end of the evening.

‘A lot of this was focused around the fairground which seemed to act as a magnet to this type of person,’ said Mr Le Page.

He said that more people could have been detained, but officers tried not to make arrests. There were fewer made than last year.

‘Police dealt with incidents within the fairground and were able, using their skills and professionalism, to keep groups of people apart. It’s fair to say that a number of people could have been arrested but police were intent on keeping order. Police were policing to the circumstances and it’s a great tribute to the manner in which they behaved that there were no injuries amongst the crowd,’ he said.

A few officers received minor injuries but none proved serious.

‘We had extra officers on duty and many were working overtime on what should have been a rest day. They were there so the vast majority of people who came into town could enjoy themselves.’

Mr Le Page said that there was a wonderful family atmosphere in Town.

‘There was a great feeling that appeared to be better than last year and the day went off extremely well,’ he said.

‘Behaviour was a little better than last year but there is still room for considerable improvement. The police were busy and did have some difficulties but were policing to the circumstances,’ he said.

Mr Le Page praised licensees for their responsible attitude during the day, including Mr Beardsley.

‘He felt it was time to call it a day and that was a responsible approach,’ he said.

Because of the number of arrests, Customs overflow detention facilities were used during the day but this was not the first time.