Police have urged parents to be aware of where their children are going and keep them safe after a series of anti-social behaviour incidents. Devon and Cornwall Police said there has been a recent surge in incidents involving underage drinking and drug use in in Dawlish Warren, Devon, with some young people needing hospital treatment. The hot weather has led to large groups meeting up in the Dawlish Warren area from other places on the local train line, police said.

Teignbridge Sector Inspector Ryan Northmore said: “We are not trying to spoil anyone’s fun but we are asking youngsters to enjoy the public spaces in South Devon responsibly and for parents to be aware of where their children are and what they're doing. Our number one priority is the safety of the community and that includes school and college age youngsters.

“The majority of young people in our communities are an absolute credit to the local area, but we recognise that there are a small minority who have been causing disruption, so it’s important we to take action when that behaviour puts them or others in danger.

“Our officers will be out and about this weekend patrolling busy areas and train stations – so when you see them, please say hello. We’ll be engaging with everyone across our communities, including youngsters, and alcohol will be seized from anyone underage.

“The team will also be looking at the option of dispersal orders to tackle ASB if they are necessary.”

“Some people want to relax with their friends after exam season, enjoy the good weather and have some fun and we have no issue with that. However, large groups engaging in anti-social behaviour can be intimidating for others.”

Inspector Northmore added: “No parent or guardian wants to get a call to say their child is in hospital or at a police station so we would urge them to please speak to their children about their safety and ask where they are going this weekend. Many local youngsters are responsible and don’t cause any issues but sadly there are a minority who go too far and their behaviour puts them and others in danger.

“We would like to thank the public for their support and co-operation and hope everyone has an enjoyable summer.”

This comes after last week's dispersal order that was issued after large numbers of teenagers gathered at the Devon beach. A 24-hour dispersal order was issued at 7.22pm on Saturday, June 20.

Police said a high volume of calls and complaints about anti-social behaviour at the large gathering led to the authorisation of special dispersal powers, with anyone failing to leave when instructed facing arrest.

Devon and Cornwall Police wrote in a Facebook post last Saturday, June 20: "Police are aware of a large gathering of youths at Dawlish Warren beach and ongoing calls in relation to ASB. A dispersal order has been authorised and will remain in place until 19:22pm on Sunday 21st June.

"A request is made for parents of children in their teens to be aware of their location and to dissuade attendance."

One person wrote in the comments: "If it’s the same teens as last Saturday, they were causing havoc! Walking out in front of cars, fighting in the road, sitting on the edge of the train tracks."