We’ll take steps to protect beaches from louts
ACAMPAIGN to help prevent crime and deliberate fires on Sefton’s beaches during the busy summer months has been launched.
The annual multi-agency operation, sometimes known as “Beachwatch”, will run through to the end of the school summer holidays.
The campaign aims to tackle crime, anti-social behaviour and deliberate fires on Sefton’s beaches and National Trust areas, as well as Sites of Special Scientific Interest.
It is particularly focused toward the Formby Point area, which attracts huge crowds during the summer.
Inspector Jim Atherton, who covers Formby, Hightown and Ainsdale, said: “As in previous years, we all look forward to welcoming those who come to the coastline, respect the environment and the local community.
“We will continue to work closely with all our partners to identify any potential troublemakers and deal with them accordingly.
“Can I remind visitors to check travel inform-ation, especially in relation to the National Trust site in Formby, as parking is very limited and fills up very early with good weather and during weekends and school holi- days.
“There are lots of new parking restrictions in place in the nearby res-idential areas. I would hate visitors to have a good day out spoiled by a parking ticket or, worse still, their vehicle being removed if it is causing an obstruction.”
Graham Morgan, an arson officer at Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service, said: “We will be working closely with Merseyside Police and other agencies to prevent dangerous fires on Sefton’s coast, which can potentially cost lives or damage sensitive natural habitats.
“We are urging people to act responsibly on the beaches and near woodland areas to prevent fires occurring.”
T/Superintendent Dawn McNally, from Sefton Command Team, added: “We work alongside partners to take part in this initiative every year to prevent crime and disorder along the coast, while encouraging people to enjoy the beach and park areas safely.
“Our priority is to ensure that everyone has a safe and enjoyable time and that the beaches stay clean and trouble-free.”
Last year, the operation led to a fall in crime around Sefton’s beaches. Police officers carried out regular patrols and, where necessary, gave out warnings under the Police Reform Act.
Just ten units of alcohol were seized by officers throughout the campaign, highlighting a fall in the amount of alcohol being brought onto the beach.