Praise for police response after disorder at North Tyneside beaches leads to eight arrests
26th June 2020
Northumbria Police, alongside Police and Crime Commissioner Kim McGuinness and North Tyneside Council, have praised the effort of officers and condemned the actions of a minority, following anti-social behaviour and disorder in the Tynemouth and Cullercoats area.
Yesterday (Thursday), officers were deployed after a number of reports claiming beach-goers were excessively drinking, fighting and causing general disorder.
Enquiries led to the arrest of eight males aged between 15 and 28, most on suspicion of drunk and disorderly or breach of the peace offences.
Now Superintendent Craig Metcalfe, of Northumbria Police, has commended the response by officers and warns others looking to cause disorder will face arrest.
Supt Metcalfe said: “The onset of hot weather, along with the easing of the Covid-19 restrictions, has resulted in an increase of visitors to our coastal areas.
“However, a small minority have disrupted the fun for others by excessively drinking and fighting with one another.
“The response by officers was fantastic, they acted quickly and their swift enquiries led to the arrest of eight suspects.
“Most residents and visitors who come to our award-winning coastline are respectful and here to enjoy time with their friends and family. Be warned that we will act swiftly and robustly on anyone looking to disrupt that.”
Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner, Kim McGuinness, said: “The majority of people seeing the scenes from Tynemouth yesterday have, like me, been left feeling angry and let down. A small, senseless minority have abused the easing of some restrictions, descended on our beaches in large groups and caused unwelcome trouble that spoils things for everyone else.
“I’m pleased the quick response from our officers broke up the disorder and I hope these arrests spell out loud and clear that firm action will be taken against those responsible.”
North Tyneside’s Elected Mayor, Norma Redfearn CBE, said: “I was extremely disappointed to hear about the behaviour of some at our coast yesterday.
“This was a small minority, but they need to understand their actions cause real concern for our visitors and residents. Our staff are working harder than ever before to keep our award-winning coastline clean and tidy, and a safe place to visit. It simply isn’t acceptable.”
Councillor Carole Burdis, Cabinet Member for Community Safety, said: “I’m proud of the role our teams have played in dealing with the disorder, under very challenging conditions. We have stepped up our patrols and will continue to closely monitor the coast in the coming days and weeks.”
Of those arrested one man, 20, has been cautioned the rest currently remain in police custody.
Anyone who wants to report anti-social behaviour can do so on the ‘Report an Incident’ section of the Northumbria Police website or by calling 101. In an emergency, always dial 999.
ENDS
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