Police clampdown on anti-social summer behaviour (From Somerset County Gazette)

Police clampdown on anti-social summer behaviour

9:00pm Wednesday 28th July 2010

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POLICE are warning they will clampdown on anti-social behaviour in the Taunton and Wellington areas over the summer holidays.

Officers and other public bodies are advising how to stay safe and keep out of trouble.

Insp Sam Williams wants youngsters to enjoy the break “responsibly, safely and respectfully”, but anti-social behaviour will not be tolerated.

He added: “As part of 'Operation Relentless, keeping you safe this summer', we’ll be stepping up our anti-social behaviour patrols.

“Parents should always know where their children are, who they’re with and how to get in touch.

“Illegal behaviour and activity, such as trespassing, disorder, and underage drinking, won’t be tolerated, with anyone committing offences receiving appropriate sanctions.”

Insp Williams has appealed to communities to report anti-social behaviour to police, who will “respond and deal with those responsible”.

He added: “I’m confident that together police, young people, parents and communities can tackle and reduce anti-social behaviour this summer.”

Police are running a Facebook campaign to cut rapes and sexual assaults on young people over the holidays, a period when they traditionally rise.

Meanwhile British Waterways have warned young people of the dangers of cooling off by taking a dip – a spokesman said: “We want people to enjoy our waterways safely – but canals and rivers aren’t places for swimming.”

And a British Transport Police spokeswoman has told young people to keep off the rail tracks.

She said: “The railway isn’t a playground - people shouldn’t risk their lives for what they may see as a bit of harmless fun.

“We have officers patrolling and the message is simple – ‘stay safe, stay out of trouble’.”

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