Street marshals will help make Exmouth safer this summer
Street marshals will help make Exmouth a safer place this summer thanks to funding from the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner.
The office is supporting East Devon District Council with marshalling aimed specifically at preventing antisocial behaviour (ASB) by young people, a theme which ties in directly with Devon and Cornwall Police’s Operation Marnow summer policing strategy.
The Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner will fund £10,000 for the cost of marshals, along with funding from the council.
Alison Hernandez, Police and Crime Commissioner for Devon, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, said: “I’m aware some of our community are nervous about the spread of Covid during the unlock and may be too afraid to enjoy our beautiful towns, cities and coastline.
“Our experiences last summer showed that dry weather, alcohol and freedom led to some dire consequences. I want this opportunity to be used to prevent the escalation of anti-social behaviour because someone will intervene early setting clear expectations.
“Tourism is the lifeblood of Devon and Cornwall and it’s understandable that both locals and visitors will be wanting to make the most of their new-found freedoms and enjoy the summer.
“However, it’s important this does not veer into criminality or behaviour that can make normal people feel threatened or vulnerable.
“The measures we are funding will help us keep an eye on antisocial behaviour and hopefully prevent any unwanted scenarios, allowing everyone to enjoy themselves.”
Cllr Nick Hookway, East Devon District Council’s Portfolio Holder for Culture, Sport, Leisure and Tourism, said: “I am sure that I speak for all residents and visitors in thanking the Police for organising the Street Marshalls to patrol Exmouth Beach and the Town Centre.
“The Marshalls will provide a visual deterrent to prevent unwarranted behaviour and provide reassurance to all those who want to not only enjoy a visit to the Beach but also receive the friendly welcome that Exmouth has always been known for.
"Thanks must also be expressed to Alison Hernandez, PCC commissioner, for matching the funding from the Government’s Covid Enforcement grant which has made this initiative possible."
Chief Superintendent Dan Evans, Police Silver Commander for the Summer and Chair of the Safer Devon Partnership, said: “The summer always poses a significant and unique challenge for us in Devon and Cornwall.
“This year we will have to deal with the backdrop of COVID-19 and a potential increase in visitors to the area compared to previous years. This will ultimately see an increase in demand on the services of all emergency services and partner agencies.”
“Devon & Cornwall Police have been planning for the summer for some time, we have plans in place to deal with the threats identified and have additional resources available should we need them.
“The money made available will facilitate us working in partnership to deal with these issues rather than any agency dealing with them in isolation.”
