Youngsters caught boozing in the sunshine over the weekend were returned home to their parents by Exmouth police.

Youngsters caught boozing in the sunshine over the weekend were returned home to their parents by Exmouth police.

Officers said a total of 40 underage drinkers were spotted in the seafront areas of Exmouth, and officers received a small number of reports of anti-social behaviour caused by alcohol.

Police seized the booze and the youngsters were dispersed, or escorted home.

PC Martin Young thanked the public for being the ears and eyes of the police - reporting the offending youngsters.

PC Young said: "We were very appreciative of all the calls we got. We were able to go down and seize a quantity of alcohol and deal with the youngsters."

In a bid to curb boozy behaviour, officers at Exmouth are working closely with Exmouth Community College staff and students.

The police hope educating the youngsters will highlight the dangers of underage drinking.

Withycombe police community support officer Stuart Penny said he hoped parents would team up with officers, keeping youngsters safe.

PCSO Penny said: "We are aware that many young people can succumb to peer pressure but this puts them in a very vulnerable position as often young people have very little knowledge of the possible outcomes of drinking in a public place.

"It should be noted that parental responsibility has to play its part and parents should not be surprised if they are contacted by us if their children engage in underage drinking or related crime.