A video on YouTube contrasts the fun of pop and rock festivals with victims of crime talking about how having their stuff stolen ruined a good time. It’s already attracting thousands of views.

“Within a minute, we turned round, the bag was gone”, says one British music fan. “I’d been warned but you never think it’s going to happen to you”, adds another, as the video shows victims who found out just how quickly and easily things can disappear.

The video’s message – “Make sure you spend your time at the festival, not with us” – aims to encourage music fans and tourists to keep their belongings safe.

Gary Walsh, British Pro-Consul Brussels says:

Two simple steps can help you avoid becoming a victim of crime at festivals and busy tourist locations. First, treat your passport as a valuable document: if it gets lost or stolen you’ll spend your holiday applying for a travel document to get you home. Second, keep your valuables with you at all times, and keep an eye on them! A bag over the back of a chair or on the floor in a restaurant or bar is such an easy target. Also keep an eye out especially for your smartphone as they are often targeted during festivals; be aware when standing in line or buying drinks or food.

Getting a replacement travel document is both time-consuming and expensive, and British Consulates, which are always busier during music festivals and the peak tourist season, say the more cases they can prevent, the better.

Viewers are encouraged to embed it on their websites or share it with friends, to ensure the message gets seen as widely as possible.

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