Chaos in UK seaside town as police issues plea to parents | UK | News
Police have appealed to parents to know where their children are going and keep them safe after a spate of anti-social behavior incidents. Devon and Cornwall Police say there has been a recent increase in incidents involving underage drinking and drug use in Dawlish Warren, Devon, with some young people requiring hospital treatment. Police said hot weather had led to large groups gathering in the Dawlish Warren area from elsewhere on the local rail line.
Teignbridge Sector Inspector Ryan Northmore said: “We’re not trying to spoil anyone’s fun but we would ask young people to use public spaces in South Devon responsibly and parents to be aware of where their children are and what they are doing. “Our number one priority is the safety of the community and this includes school and college aged young people.
“The majority of young people in our communities are an absolute asset to the local area, but we recognize that there are a small minority who cause disruption, so it is important that we take action when this behavior puts them or others at risk.
“Our officers will be patrolling busy areas and train stations this weekend, so please say hello when you see them. “We will be contacting everyone in our communities, including young people, and anyone underage will have their alcohol confiscated.
“The team will also consider the option of a dispersal order to address ASB if necessary.”
“Some people want to relax with friends after the exam period, enjoy the beautiful weather and have some fun, and we don’t see a problem with that. However, anti-social behavior in large groups can be frightening for others.”
Inspector Northmore added: “No parent or guardian wants to receive a phone call to say their child is in hospital or a police station, so we would encourage them to please talk to their child about their safety and ask them where they are going this weekend. “Most local young people are responsible and do not cause any problems, but unfortunately there are a minority who go too far and their behavior is putting themselves and others in danger.
“We thank our people for their support and cooperation and wish everyone to have an enjoyable summer.”
This follows an order to disperse after large numbers of young people gathered on the Devon coast last week. A 24-hour dispersal order was issued at 7:22 pm on Saturday, June 20.
Police said a number of calls and complaints about anti-social behavior at the large gathering had led to special dispersal powers and anyone who did not leave when instructed faced arrest.
Devon and Cornwall Police wrote in a Facebook post on Saturday, June 20: “Police are aware of a large gathering of youth at Dawlish Warren beach and ongoing calls regarding the ASB. “A dispersal order has been issued and will remain in force until 7.22pm on Sunday, June 21.
“Parents of teenage children are requested to be aware of their location and discourage participation.”
One person commented: “The same young people as last Saturday were wreaking havoc! They were walking in front of cars, fighting on the road, sitting by the train tracks.”
