News Release
Seaside operation starts
Dated: 29 Mar 2012
Police are launching their seasonal seaside operation to tackle drink-fuelled disorder.
Officers from the Whitley Bay Neighbourhood Policing Team have started carrying out extra patrols around Cullercoats Bay, now that the warmer weather is bringing a flood of visitors to the coast.
Police patrols aim to prevent problems and keep the area a family friendly space for everyone to enjoy.
Residents are invited to attend a police forum at the RNLI building at Cullercoats Bay on Sunday, April 1, at 1.30pm when Sergeant Dave Foy, together with local neighbourhood beat managers, will update people about Operation Dredge and will also discuss any issues raised.
Neighbourhood Inspector Jim Gray said: "Cullercoats Bay is a great amenity for the whole community. Neighbourhood officers are committed to making sure the area is a safe place for everyone to enjoy. Police patrols are taking place around the bay area and nearby beaches and officers will take action against anyone found behaving in a disorderly manner."
This work has already begun. On Monday, March 26, officers issued three 'Direction to Leave' orders. These give police powers to remove individuals from a designated area for 48 hours. If they breach the order by returning to the area within this time, they face being arrested and put before the courts.
Two men aged 22 and 27 years breached the order and were arrested by police and charged to appear before North Tyneside Magistrates Court on April 11. A third man aged 24 was charged with being drunk and disorderly and will also appear before magistrates.
Inspector Gray added: "We want to send a clear message that disorderly behaviour will not be tolerated. We have listened to residents in our community and we know this is an issue that causes them concern. They rightly expect that we will act to make sure Cullercoats remains a peaceful place for residents and visitors to enjoy. These additional patrols will continue over the busier summer periods."
Anyone with concerns about crime or anti-social behaviour in their area can contact their local Neighbourhood Policing Team on 101 ext 69191.
Pictured left to right PC Alan Mooring, CSO Nicola Clark and CSO Brian Phillips at Cullercoats Bay