POLICE have confirmed 72 arrests were made over the weekend at V Festival, the majority of which were drug offences.

As off 11pm on Sunday, 53 people were arrested for drug possession and nine for dealing. One arrest was amde for assault, three for theft, one for public order and seven people were arrested for selling nitrous oxide, otherwise known as laughing gas.

Most drug offences were sniffed out by police dogs at the entrances to the venue.

Policing Commander, Chief Supt Simon Williams, said: "I’m really pleased with the great work from all our officers who have been liaising with the V Festival organisers to make sure this brilliant event was both safe and enjoyable.

"The work of our drugs dogs in sniffing out those in supplying drugs has once again proven to be a successful tactic. The dogs were also a great hit with the festival-goers, many who stopped to stroke the dogs and engage with officers.

"We would like to thank the festival-goers for taking note of our crime prevention advice and hope that they enjoyed the weekend. We would urge people to be mindful of their alcohol limits if they are going to drive home at the end of today or in the morning and be patient as the roads will be busy after the festival ends.

"If you have been a victim of crime, please do report it to us by calling 101.”

People can find details of the road closures and latest V-Festival travel information by following @Essex_Travel for updates.