Areion Security Services Ltd – Supporting “Our Bury St Edmunds” BID Events

Overview

Since 2023, Areion Security Services Ltd has proudly partnered with the Our Bury St Edmunds Business Improvement District (BID), delivering security, stewarding, and—since 2025—event medical services across the town’s flagship events.

Managing Director Anthony Barnes has worked with BID organisers since 2013, building a relationship rooted in trust, professionalism, and shared commitment to community safety. This long-standing collaboration has enabled Areion to provide not just operational support, but also strategic insight into the evolving needs of Bury St Edmunds’ most celebrated events. The Areion team is proud to be involved in the organisation and delivery of these events, ensuring they remain safe, inclusive, and welcoming for all.

Areion’s Role and Impact

• Security & Stewarding (2023–present):
  Areion assumed responsibility for the BID’s security and stewarding contract in 2023, delivering compliance-led crowd management, safeguarding, and access control. Our teams ensure smooth visitor experiences while upholding the highest standards of safety and inclusivity.
• Event Medical Provision (2025–present):
  In 2025, Areion expanded its remit to include dedicated event medical teams, providing on-site first aid, rapid response, and seamless integration with local emergency services. This holistic approach has strengthened resilience across all BID events.
• Strategic Partnership:
  With over a decade of collaboration between Anthony Barnes and BID organisers, Areion brings continuity, deep local knowledge, and proactive planning. This partnership has enabled seamless coordination with local authorities and emergency services, ensuring events are delivered to the highest standard.
• Pride in Delivery:
  The Areion team takes great pride in being part of the organisation of these events, recognising their importance to the local community and economy. Every deployment reflects our values of professionalism, inclusivity, and operational excellence.

Outcomes

• Enhanced Public Safety: Zero major incidents since Areion assumed responsibility.
• Operational Excellence: Tailored deployment models for each event’s unique footprint.
• Community Confidence: Positive feedback from attendees, traders, and stakeholders.
• Future-Ready Approach: Integration of medical services ensures resilience as events grow.
• Team Pride: Staff engagement and morale strengthened by being part of high-profile, community-focused events.

Background on the Events

Spring Fayre

• Timing: May Bank Holiday weekend
• Attractions: Urban beach, Punch & Judy shows, over 70 market stalls, street performances, and interactive family exhibits across Cornhill, Angel Hill, and the arc shopping centre.
• Operational Challenges: Managing high daytime footfall, ensuring family-friendly safety measures, and maintaining accessibility across multiple town-centre sites.

Food & Drink Festival

• Timing: August Bank Holiday weekend
• Attractions: Live cookery demonstrations at the Chefs on Stage Theatre, artisan food stalls, bustling farmers’ market, and family entertainment.
• Operational Challenges: Alcohol-related risk management, open-access crowd control, and ensuring medical readiness for large, diverse audiences.

Christmas Lights Event

• Timing: November, coinciding with St Edmund’s Day
• Attractions: Craft and gift stalls, live stage performances, fairground rides, and themed street entertainment leading up to the festive lights switch-on.
• Operational Challenges: Evening crowd safety, safeguarding families, and enhanced emergency response planning for night-time economy risks.