The 100 Days of Summer policing operation to tackle anti-social behaviour (ASB) and criminal activity in Weymouth saw a 40 per cent reduction in incidents compared to previous years.

Beginning on May 30 police officers worked with members of Dorset Council’s Community Safety Accreditation Scheme (CSAS) and other partners, to provide 100 days of highly visible uniformed foot patrol during the summer months.

The neighbourhood policing team held weekly meetings with other agencies, including Weymouth Town Council, the Lantern Trust, Julian House, and REACH, to discuss strategies and tactics for local issues. Dorset Police is also part of the local Safer Streets partnership that seeks to divert individuals from causing ASB and crime.

Officers were also in regular contact with the Beach Control Office, Harbour Master, and RNLI to coordinate resources, ensuring problems are being addressed and people are kept safe.

Weymouth and Portland Neighbourhood Inspector Sam Goom said: “The 100 Days of Summer was not always sunny, but it was successful. This is largely due to the partnership work that happened throughout the season. By meeting regularly and sharing information, we were able to cultivate a strong sense of community in the town, not just with other agencies but also with the residents and businesses in Weymouth.

“We are proud to see the results of the operation and look forward to building on these relationships. Weymouth is a great place to live, visit or work. We are committed to ensuring it stays that way.”

He said the effect of robust policing, such as use of dispersal orders, and regular interaction with those affected by ASB, was appreciated by the local community and visitors to the area.

Hotelier Jonathan Oldroyd said: “We appreciate the positive difference the local policing team and partner agencies have made for our guests, visitors, and our own daily experience.

“The regular and proactive visits the team have been making to see us really helps build a good working relationship.”

Under the Section 35 of the Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014, officers can exclude a person or people from an area for up to 48 hours.

Steve Yeoman, Community Safety Team Leader for Dorset Council, said: “Collaboration by Dorset Council, Police and partners through the Safer Streets Partnership has allowed all organisations to pool their resources, expertise, and funds to tackle the root causes related to ASB.

“This efficient service delivery reduces duplication, streamlines preventative actions, and develops sustainable strategies to create safer communities.”

Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner, David Sidwick said: “The 100 Days of Summer campaign is a prime example of how working with partner agencies to take robust action and having visible proactive patrols really works to tackle the issue of ASB in our communities.

“I’d like to thank all the police officers, staff and volunteers who have been involved in making the operation a success. It is thanks to their dedication and professionalism that residents and visitors alike were able to enjoy a safe summer in Weymouth and there was a clear reduction in criminal activity compared to last year.

“Being visible and connected is a priority within my Police and Crime Plan and I am clear that officers must be seen and visible to the public not just for the summer season but all year long. The 100 days of summer campaign is just one part of the work happening under Operation Relentless and such robust action and partnership working will not stop until change is felt in every part of Dorset.”

You can keep up to date on the team’s ongoing work by following ‘Weymouth and Portland Police’ on Facebook and @WeyPortPolice on X and Instagram.