POLICE are appealing to parents to be aware of where their children are going and keep them safe after recent incidents of anti-social behaviour at Dawlish Warren.

Officers will be out on patrol this weekend and say they will use dispersal powers again if necessary.

Over the last few weekends, groups of young people have been congregating on the beach area, consuming alcohol and using drugs, resulting in some needing hospital treatment.

The hot weather has led to large groups meeting up in the Dawlish Warren area from other places, including Exeter, using local train services.

Teignbridge Sector Inspector Ryan Northmore said: ‘We are not trying to spoil anyone’s fun but we are asking youngsters to enjoy the public spaces responsibly and for parents to be aware of where their children are and what they're doing.

‘Our number one priority is the safety of the community and that includes school and college age youngsters.

‘The majority of young people in our communities are an absolute credit to the local area, but we recognise that there are a small minority who have been causing disruption, so it’s important we to take action when that behaviour puts them or others in danger.

‘Our officers will be out and about this weekend patrolling busy areas and train stations – so when you see them, please say hello. We’ll be engaging with everyone across our communities, including youngsters, and alcohol will be seized from anyone underage.

‘The team will also be looking at the option of dispersal orders to tackle ASB if they are necessary.

‘Large groups engaging in anti-social behaviour can be intimidating for others.’

Meanwhile, Dawlish College has sent a letter to parents regarding a ‘serious incident’ in the town involving a number of young people.

The letter said: ‘We are very disappointed to see this type of behaviour from our young people, particularly given the age of some of the students involved within our school community. This falls well below the standards we expect and work hard to instil at Dawlish College.

'We also wish to make it clear that filming or sharing such behaviour, including incidents of fighting or anti-social behaviour, will not be tolerated and will be sanctioned in line with our school behaviour policy.’

Police are also reminding people that extreme temperatures, cold water, strong currents and alcohol can be dangerous and can lead to dehydration, sun stroke and other medical or safety risks on land and in the water.

Teignbridge officers are in contact with colleagues at British Transport Police ahead of the busy weekend and police have already liaised with local Teignbridge schools to make them aware of recent issues and ask for their support in raising awareness with students.

Inspector Northmore added: ‘No parent or guardian wants to get a call to say their child is in hospital or at a police station so we would urge them to please speak to their children about their safety and ask where they are going this weekend.

‘Many local youngsters are responsible and don’t cause any issues but sadly there are a minority who go too far and their behaviour puts them and others in danger.

‘We would like to thank the public for their support and co-operation and hope everyone has an enjoyable summer.’