Take your rubbish home and respect social distancing rules – Police message to visitors and locals

Visitors to Sidmouth and local residents alike are being reminded to take their rubbish home with them and respect social distancing rules in an effort to protect East Devon and the wider county for everyone.

During the summer months some of the area's beauty spots and beaches become extremely busy. Local residents and tourists are encouraged to act responsibly and respectfully when out and about this summer to help protect the county and its communities.

Neighbourhood Policing Inspector Rob Bolt, of Devon and Cornwall Police, said: "The recent hot weather has brought crowds of visitors and residents to our beaches and beauty spots, the majority of whom behave in a considerate and respectful way.

"We ask that people be responsible. Drive safely, park respectfully, dispose of litter appropriately, take precautions to prevent wild fires, specifically from camp fires or BBQ's and be generally courteous to others, so everyone can enjoy our beautiful county."

Devon and Cornwall Police and Crime Commissioner Alison Hernandez, added: "Unfortunately the summer months result in a minority of people causing problems for the majority of residents and visitors who want to enjoy everything that this beautiful part of the world has to offer. This year we have seen anti-social behaviour and unauthorised camping at some of our most popular spots.

"That's why I am working in partnership with councils and funding additional resources like street marshals at 20 locations around Devon and Cornwall.

"The Safer Summer Scheme will help to protect Devon and Cornwall's reputation as a wonderful place to visit, but police and partners cannot work alone.

"With over 700 miles of coastline ultimately we rely on people to do the right thing, so please be safe, be considerate and enjoy Devon, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly this summer."

This advice is being given to help everyone enjoy the county as safely and as respectfully as possible. So please stay safe, respect what Devon and Cornwall has to offer, protect our county and its communities and enjoy this beautiful part of England.