Alcohol ban in place at UK beach as council issues 'violence and disorder' warning

Sun worshippers visiting a seaside town's beach have been warned alcohol will be seized in a crackdown on antisocial behaviour. Dorset Police have said it will increase the number of officers on patrol in Bournemouth this weekend as Brits bask in another scorching heatwave.

Officers can confiscate booze, nitrous oxide and illicit substances along a stretch of coast from Sandbanks to Highcliffe under a Public Space Protection Order. PSPOs give police powers to tackle bad behaviour, including loud music, peeing in public and aggression.

Ch Supt Heather Dixey said: "Violence and disorder on Bournemouth beach will absolutely not be tolerated and anyone who is identified as being involved will be robustly dealt with."

Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council said on Friday (July 11) that community safety officers will also be patrolling the area.

Richard Herrett, a local councillor responsible for leisure, said: "We ask everyone - residents and visitors alike - to enjoy our coastline responsibly and respectfully.

"Please park legally, dispose of your rubbish correctly, and respect others using the space. Those who don't are not welcome back."

About 10 million people visit the area each year, according to the council. More than 1,000 parking tickets were issued during the last weekend heatwave.

Authorities said CCTV will be closely monitored in a bid to prevent crime and antisocial behaviour. The council also warns visitors could be prosecuted if they try camping on the seafront or start a fire.

Temperatures could reach 32C in parts of central and southern England on Friday. The Met Office said possible highs of 33C on Saturday mean the third heatwave will fall short of the top temperatures of 34.7C recorded earlier this month, but this heatwave will be more widespread.

HM Coastguard has issued safety advice for holidaymakers heading to the coast. Data from a water incident database shows most drownings happened in July in the last three years.

The Coastguard urged people to check the weather forecast and tide times, steer clear of cliff edges and bases, avoid mud, inform others of their whereabouts and have a fully charged phone.

Meanwhile, the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) urged people to drink water regularly, seek shade and use sunscreen.

Steve Cole, RoSPA policy director, said: "Heat is no longer just a holiday perk, it's a growing public health risk."