Amateur Photographer Magazine

Festive cheer for Christmas lights photographer

Monday 24th December 2007

Chris Cheesman

Just in time for Christmas, a full written apology from Suffolk Police has landed on the doormat of the amateur photographer stopped from taking pictures at a festive event in Ipswich.

As we reported recently, Phil Smith lodged a formal complaint against Suffolk Police after a Special Constable stopped him taking pictures from a spectator area in front of Ipswich Town Hall on Sunday 18 November.

The 49-year-old had been hoping to snap some images of the Christmas lights switch-on which included a visit from Cinderella and Postman Pat. Unfortunately, he never got the chance to enjoy the festive cheer.

Smith has now received a full apology in writing from Suffolk Police inspector Matt Dee in a letter, part of which reads: 'I can categorically state that you have committed no offences whatsoever.'

It concludes: 'I trust you will continue to take photographs at any similar events, safe in the knowledge that it is a perfectly lawful activity.'

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