OFFICERS have outlined a number of police measures being implemented to tackle the problem of young people drinking alcohol in Exmouth. It follows a worrying Bank Holiday weekend in the town two weeks ago in which a drunken 16-year-old girl had to be trea

OFFICERS have outlined a number of police measures being implemented to tackle the problem of young people drinking alcohol in Exmouth.

It follows a worrying Bank Holiday weekend in the town two weeks ago in which a drunken 16-year-old girl had to be treated by paramedics after collapsing in The Maer.

A police spokesperson said measures would include officers carrying out regular patrols every weekend in both uniform and plain clothes.

And, children found with alcohol will have drink seized, their details will be taken and parents contacted there and then.

Section 27 dispersal order-powers will also continue to be used on children aged over 16.

But, PC Gary Gates, youth intervention officer covering Exmouth, said he believed the majority of young people in the area were law abiding individuals.

He added: "As an officer in East Devon covering the town for the last seven years I have come to understand that the vast majority of young people are law abiding, respectful and full of youthful exuberance.

"However, it is clear a significant number are making choices with regards to alcohol consumption which could put them at risk and lead them into contact with the police.

"If engaged in anti social or drunken behaviour they risk being arrested and their future blighted by a police record.

"There is also a vulnerability-aspect of young people who may have consumed alcohol. The extent of their impairment could be such that they are not able to effectively cope with an encounter or set of circumstances.

"Encounters that may have the potential to develop into an incident resulting in them becoming a victim of crime, for example a violent or sexual assault.

"It is neither fair nor acceptable that the majority of young people should be labelled as anti-social.

"It is also not right that the general public should have to suffer their peace by disturbed or property damaged by the conduct of this significant minority.