EXTRA police patrols will be carried out in Teignmouth during peak times over the summer months, bosses have said. 

Teams of officers will be conducting high visibility foot patrol across the sea front and town centre areas as part of a bid to tackle crime and anti-social behaviour. 

To safeguard young people and challenge underage alcohol consumption, officers are taking a robust approach to find and seize alcohol and illegal substances from young people. 

The additional patrols are aimed at keeping the public safe and there will be further support from additional officers during busy evenings.

Inspector Sean Roper, who oversees neighbourhood police officers in Teignmouth, said: ‘We know over the summer period we see an increase in the number of people visiting the area including holiday-makers, families and young people under the age of 18.

‘It’s fantastic so many people choose to come to Teignmouth to enjoy the lovely outdoor spaces we’re lucky enough to have. 

‘Most visitors are well behaved, but it’s still not unusual for us to see an increase in crime reports from the public. 

‘This includes reports of youth-related anti-social behaviour which often relate to young people under the age of 18 being disruptive and using alcohol and/or drugs.

‘To make sure all visitors and residents feel safe, we will be stepping up our patrols to ensure we have a regular and visible presence within our communities. 

‘They will be taking place in high-footfall areas across key times of the day.’

Insp Roper continued: 'Continuing to increase our presence on the streets will act as both a reassurance to the community, showing that we are here to proactively disrupt crime and keep people safe, while also acting as a deterrent to people who look to commit crime.

‘We remain committed to encouraging positive and healthy behaviour, while deterring crime and ASB. 

‘By working together with our communities, we can make sure our public spaces remain safe and enjoyable for everyone. 

‘Please continue to report criminal activity – your reports help us to make sure we’re conducting patrols in the right places and at the right times. Thank you.’