The end of last year's Reading Festival was tainted by violence and burning tents, which sparked complaints to police and organisers about security.

But as the event returns this week, local councillors say residents are broadly supportive of the three-day festival and haven't raised concerns. 

The Chronicle has spoken to councillors in wards closest to the popular event which attracts up to 100,000 and has been running for 52 years.

Wendy Griffith, who covers the Battle ward area, said residents are "broadly accepting" of the festival.

The councillor said: “It’s only a few days a year and does a great deal of good for the town.” 

When asked how the residents react to the festival, Councillor Griffith said that “They aren’t [reacting]. 

“I don’t get any complaints. 

“The only complaints I have had has been about traffic on Cow Lane but that is an accepted part of having such a massive event in our town. 

She added: “I encourage people to use alternative transport.” 

Another councillor, Jacopo Lanzoni from Caversham, agreed, saying: “It’s a great resource and brings youth to the town. 

“Last year, I got very positive feedback.” 

Their comments come after 50 people were ejected from Reading Festival last year on the Sunday after widespread disorder.

Videos emerged online of tents being set on fire while festivalgoers complained of a "frightening" atmosphere. 

Readers shared their thoughts on the festival. Beth Louise said it was "great" for the local economy while Sarah Mundy said she wished those living in Reading were eligible for cheaper tickets "due to the inconvenience of noise and mess left behind". 

One resident Kat Hatton highlighted the issue around traffic, as Councillor Griffith mentioned earlier, saying: “There are massive, massive, massive traffic jams.” 

However Samantha Saunders said August Bank Holiday weekend is a time where "people hate living here". 

Thames Valley Police were contacted for comment. 

A spokesperson for Festival Republic, who operates Reading Festival, said: “[We are] working alongside police officers throughout the festival. 

“We strongly recommend people don’t drive to Reading Festival but take public transport."

They added that people should follow AA signage and directions rather than their Sat Navs. 

There are planned road closures for the weekend, with night time closures (7 pm-6 am) on Thames Path, a road leading up to Richfield Avenue, the venue of the festival. 

A spokesman for Reading Council said “There will be enforced parking and loading restrictions in place around the festival site, particularly around Richfield Avenue. 

“To help maintain traffic flow, the Council's parking enforcement officers will be as always working alongside police to crack down on people who park illegally and cause obstruction.”