Police ask people to "play your part in making this summer in our region safe, respectful and successful for all"

Devon and Cornwall Police wants people to "play your part in making this summer in our region safe, respectful and successful for all" as the school holidays begin and the force prepares for the challenge of policing the summer and the hundreds of thousands of tourists flocking to our towns, resorts and coastal areas.

With most COVID-19 restrictions now lifted, the force will be working closely with partners across the region to support a full reopening of our economy as safely as possible for tourists and our resident communities alike.

Chief Superintendent Dan Evans, Commander for North, East and West Devon as well as summer policing for Devon & Cornwall Police said: “The tourist economy in Devon and Cornwall has suffered significantly in the last 18 months. We are working closely with our partners to support local business and unlock our society safely and in accordance with government and medical advice.

“With the continued uncertainty surrounding travel abroad, we expect an even greater number of people to visit the region on top of those having a staycation, and who can blame them; this is a welcoming community-spirited region and beautiful area thanks to our moors and beaches coupled with the fact that we have one of the lowest crime rates in the country.

Chief Supt Evans added: “It has been a difficult year for us all and many are happy to see nightclubs reopen and the return of our evening and night-time economy, but please show some restraint and respect to our resident communities and each other.

“We will not tolerate those who think it’s acceptable to ruin this for others, so we are working hard to tackle anti-social behaviour (ASB) across the region.

“With the help of additional funding from the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner, we are also targeting 18 additional hotspots in the area where there will be further resources in place to tackle this issue including the use of CCTV and street marshals.”

Devon & Cornwall Police has already seen significant demand into our call centres this summer, and we ask the public to think about how you contact the police in a non-emergency and to always go online first if you can.

There are many online ways to contact the police including emailing This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., WebChat and reporting crime through the online crime reporting form.

Chief Supt Evans said: “We will always be there for you in an emergency and when you call 999, however all our calls and contact goes through our two control rooms - 999 calls take priority.

“During busy times in the summer season the number of calls to the 101 line can be significant. Please use online reporting safe in the knowledge every contact received about a policing issue is answered by a member of the contact centre, whether it’s through the online channels or by phone.”

Police have joined local authority and health partners across the peninsula to highlight that even though you may be coming to the area for a break – COVID-19 doesn’t take a holiday.

Chief Supt Evans added: “You may be coming to Devon and Cornwall on your holidays, but the pandemic remains in all of our communities and case rates are climbing significantly.

“Behave appropriately in crowded public spaces, please test regularly and consider wearing a face covering as a respect to others and accept that not everyone, particularly the vulnerable in our communities, will feel safe at this time.

“The summer period can lead to congested roads and demand on all emergency services resources is expected to remain high. I ask that all visitors are patient and plan in more time for your journeys, expect delays on the road network and book ahead.

“When you do arrive in the region please support and enjoy the local economy, but do it respectfully.”