VISITORS and local residents alike are being reminded to take their rubbish home with them and respect social distancing rules in an effort to protect Devon, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly for everyone.

During the summer months, some of the area’s beauty spots and beaches become extremely busy.

Local residents and tourists are encouraged to act responsibly and respectfully when out and about this summer to help protect the county and its communities.

Neighbourhood Policing Inspector Rob Bolt, of Devon & Cornwall Police, said: ’The recent hot weather has brought crowds of visitors and residents to our beaches and beauty spots, the majority of whom behave in a considerate and respectful way.

’We ask that people be responsible. Drive safely, park respectfully, dispose of litter appropriately, take precautions to prevent wild fires, specifically from camp fires or BBQ’s, and be generally courteous to others, so everyone can enjoy our beautiful county.’

Devon & Cornwall Police and Crime Commissioner Alison Hernandez, added: ’Unfortunately the summer months result in a minority of people causing problems for the majority of residents and visitors who want to enjoy everything that this beautiful part of the world has to offer.

’This year we have seen anti-social behaviour and unauthorised camping at some of our most popular spots.

’That’s why I am working in partnership with councils and funding additional resources like street marshals at 20 locations around Devon and Cornwall.

’The Safer Summer Scheme will help to protect Devon and Cornwall’s reputation as a wonderful place to visit, but police and partners cannot work alone.

’With over 700 miles of coastline, ultimately we rely on people to do the right thing, so please be safe, be considerate and enjoy Devon, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly this summer.’

The Police and Crime Commissioner urged caution as Britain braces itself for a three-day heatwave.

She warned that coastal roads, beauty spots and town centres are likely to be ‘exceptionally busy’ this weekend.

’It’s great that tourists can return to Devon, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, and the vast majority are well behaved and welcomed by communities that rely on them for their livelihoods,’ she said.

’I am pleased to be able to offer practical support to those communities that this year have the added complication of COVID-19 regulations.

’With its stunning beaches, vibrant cities and towns and rolling moors, the Westcountry has much to offer.

’This weekend, though, the forecast is for some unusually hot weather and I will be asking people to allow extra time for their journeys, pack extra suncream and be cautious with their alcohol consumption.

’I want residents and visitors to take extra care around the sea – tragically two men have lost their lives on one beach in Cornwall this year.

’The sun can also be very dangerous at this time of year. I am used to life here but got caught out and burned while visiting our beach marshals in Newquay.

’We are blessed with the lowest crime rate in the country but our emergency services do become extremely busy dealing with incidents like missing people at this time of year and we don’t want them swamped with issues that can be avoided by taking a few simple steps.’

For advice on safety guidelines when in public, information on how to report non-urgent crime or to make an enquiry please go to devon-cornwall.police.uk/safersummer.