Voices is the Dorset Echo's weekly youth page, written for young people by young people

CONSTANTLY, reports of crime depress our views of our towns.

Weymouth is a large town, and part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site – the Jurassic Coast.

However, the many optimistic views of the town are being suppressed by theft, drugs, violence, criminal damage and anti-social behaviour.

Although Weymouth is subject to damaging drugs through county lines, there were only 109 drug offences, compared to 1118 acts of anti-social behaviour between July 2018, and June 2019, according to the Police UK website.

Besides, what town does not have any downsides? Sometimes, it is the negatives that help to define the positives.

Weymouth must be praised. The town hosts an excellent seafront for all seasons.

Despite the town not being known for branded stores and eateries, it has excellent independent ones, which have proven to be better in many cases.

For instance, the fish and chip shop, Fish ‘n’ fritz has been named as one of the best in the country according to Seafish, and the town has the ninth best burger restaurant in the country, The Dorset Burger Company, according to TripAdvisor.

Furthermore, the town has celebrated its diversity through the recent pride event. These are just a few of the festivities and features that glorifies the town.

Weymouth does have an abundance of positive aspects, which need more focus on because every town has its weaknesses. It is the positive news that is refreshing and defines our town as unique, thus one to celebrate.

James Sullivan