Yeah, we know that festival organisers always declare their events an unparalleled success, even when it's clear to all that they weren't. However, WOMAD does seem to have gone extremely well this year. The 30,000 people who attended were rewarded with glorious weather and almost no crime. Arrests at the event came in at just six (down a staggering 75% on 2007), the most serious of which was assault on a security guard. There were nineteen reported thefts from tents (down from 100 the previous year).
Inspector Mark Levitt of the Wiltshire Police said: "Crime was significantly down in the region of 75%, no disorder, fantastic traffic management and visitors, staff and artists have created a wonderful atmosphere. We work really hard in regards to targeting organised criminals who seek out such festivals for stealing from tents. We are confident that this effort has resulted in far fewer arrests at this years event".
Festival Director, Chris Smith told CMU: "2008 was an important year as we had to win back the trust of our audience and the local community after the mud bath of 2007. I am delighted that the success of this year has achieved both of these things and so much more, a fantastic festival with a great vibe in a beautiful place!"
Festival founder Peter Gabriel added: "It was musically one of the best festival we have ever had".