Under-age drink crack-down

POLICE have vowed to continue to be a “thorn in the side” of teen tipplers who use public places in Sidmouth as a venue to down booze.

Sergeant Andy Turner said residents had lodged a number of complaints of under-age drinkers congregating in the Ham area.

He added: “The local policing team have been patrolling the area overtly and covertly for quite some time.

“Thanks to information from parents and well-meaning members of the public, a number of people have been found to be in possession of alcohol. Their parents have been spoken to.

“We will continue this operation and will continue to be a thorn in the side of those who partake in under-age drinking.”

Sgt Turner said Sidmouth Carnival night was an example of officers’ motivation for the crack-down.

“The ambulance service had more than ten calls to come to Sidmouth,” he added.

“It is completely unacceptable that emergency services have to deal with children under the influence of drink.

“This will continue to be one of our priorities.”