POLICE will not be paid overtime and have been banned from taking holidays to work during Creamfields.

Bosses at Cheshire Police have blocked officers from taking leave during the three day festival which starts tomorrow, Friday.

For the first time police will not be paid extra to work during the event in a bid to cut costs.

The Cheshire Police Federation called the changes ‘disappointing’.

Simon Roberts, chairman, said: “This year the rest days of officers have been cancelled during Creamfields.

“That means you can’t have time off, and all leave and time off has been cancelled.

“It disappointed me because it is an attractive option to some police officers who will want to take chlildren away during the summer holidays.

“This is because of finances.

“There will be no difference to the amount of police on duty.

“Some will be on shift anyway, the ones that aren’t won’t be getting paid overtime.

“The feeling among police is it is unfair.

“It has caused resentment and effected morale.”

Cheshire Police is paid by Cream to police the event.

It has promised 24 hour policing while maintaining a normal service in neighbourhoods in Warrington.

Previously, officers were asked to work on a voluntary basis, and were paid overtime to do so.

Instead they will now claim time worked this weekend back later in the year.

They will be paid an increased salary on bank holiday Monday.

Police not called on duty this week will be able to have the time off.

Ass Chf Con McCormick said: "Creamfields is the biggest annual event that the force polices.

"All officers who are working at Creamfields are being paid and those working on a bank holiday receive enhanced rates.

“All decisions taken have been in line with Police Regulations.

"The nature of policing means that officers often have to work anti-social hours.

“We recognise the impact that this has on the lives of police officers but the vast majority recognise that their priority is keeping the people of Cheshire safe and feeling safe.”