Devon is full say police

And anti-social behaviour is soaring

Police in Devon are calling on people to respect the region after a weekend which saw record 999 calls and increased levels of anti-social behaviour and public order incidents.

Over Saturday and Sunday, 8 and 9 August the force received 2,301 calls to the emergency 999 number, compared to 1,819 in the same period for 2019: n increase of 27 per cent. Up to August 10, this month has already seen 9,622 such calls, significantly up on the 12 month rolling daily average of 718 emergency calls per day. The number of people using the police's webchat service has more than doubled too.

A statement from the force says: "The message from police, partner and agencies and tourism bosses is clear: Devon and Cornwall are largely full to current capacity, so book ahead before you travel."

Assistant chief constable Jim Colwell said: “While resourcing is undoubtedly a challenge at this time of year, this summer appearing to be more than previous years, we remain buoyant and our communities and visitors alike can be reassured we will do our utmost to protect them and provide a first class service."

In addition to extra 999 call demand, the region also saw significant increases in anti-social behaviour and public order incidents. Across Devon and Cornwall, there were 31 reports of environmental anti-social behaviour – leaving rubbish, disposable barbeques and other waste. Nearly 200 reports of nuisance and a further 102 reports of personal anti-social behaviour – often drink related - were also reported. This equates to 67 per cent increase on all types of anti-social behaviour on the same period in 2019.

Mr Colwell added: “We want to welcome tourists safely back in to our communities and support a restart to our essential tourism economy. But that needs to be done respectfully by everyone and the levels of ASB recorded over the weekend are unacceptably high. We understand people want to enjoy what our region has to offer, but please do this safely and within the law, otherwise police will take proactive enforcement action to protect others.

“August so far has also seen public order crimes up by almost 25 per cent on this time last year. Again, we want people to be able to enjoy the good weather and reopened hospitality sector, but that has to be done responsibly – everyone must accept that personal responsibility and play their part.”

With further good weather expected over the coming weekend and planning already underway for increased numbers over the August Bank Holiday Weekend, Mr Colwell has called on tourists to think before they travel to our region. He said: “Come safely and prepared to Devon and Cornwall and you will be welcomed. Book your accommodation before you travel, drive safely on our roads, respect our coasts and drink responsibly.

“If you are visiting the many outstanding areas of natural beauty we have, take your rubbish away and play your part in making Devon and Cornwall and safe place for our residents and tourists alike. If you do need police support, the 999 service is always there for matters of life and death and serious emergency – we will always be there to assist you.”