Falmouth police have warned parents to take responsibility for their offspring after it was claimed Falmouth's main beach was like a "war-zone" during half-term.
Police were called to Gyllyngvase Beach last week after receiving reports of people shouting and arguing and several assaults which are now being investigated.
The reports follow another incident where the Swanpool Beach Cafe was nearly set on fire by someone leaving a disposable barbecue in a bin outside.
Hoteliers along Cliff Road have also complained about smoke from fires crossing the sea front and the police being regularly called out to the beach in front of the Co-Op on Cliff Road.
In a letter copied to the Packet, Membly Hall Hotel manager Bev Andrew said people had said to him it was 'intimidating' and the area was like a 'war zone'.
"Not only the smoke crossing the sea front, but the police seem to be regular visitors to the area by the co-op," he said.
"It's not a pleasant area for visitors to take a stroll and many people have told me they find it intimidating and like a war zone, after all this is an area of outstanding beauty. As local planning is now not allowing hotels and guest houses to change use, this does not promote tourism."
In the worst incident the police were called to Gyllyngvase Beach on Tuesday (May 30) after reports of anti-social behaviour included shouting and arguing and several assaults, which are now being investigated.
The next day the force took to Twitter to share their disappointment and frustration saying: "Lots of ASB at Gyllyngvase last night!
“Evidence is being sought to prosecute those involved. Do you want a criminal record? Do you want your child to be criminalised? Speak to your child if involved or know who. This behaviour will not be tolerated."
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In a statement to the Packet, a spokesperson from the force said: “Numerous youths were causing ASB by shouting and arguing with each other.
“There are also reports of several assaults which are being investigated.
“This behaviour is out of order and will not be tolerated.
"We want parents to take responsibility for their children and not only know their whereabouts but to actively discourage this behaviour.
"If the youths are prosecuted for the offences this can influence their life choices as it can prevent certain careers and even travelling to other countries.
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“We will not only look at prosecution but also at bail conditions and the antisocial behaviour system to control the company of those involved, where they can go to prevent re-offending and potentially reimbursing those affected.”
Last week Falmouth Town Council held its Sand Safe campaign on the beach to raise awareness of beach rules which include:
No open fires on the sand. BBQ’s/Fire Pits are permitted on all Falmouth’s beaches in the designated BBQ zones but must be disposed of in the bins provided.
Bin and, where possible, recycle litter.
Any general safety concerns on Falmouth’s beaches can be reported to Falmouth Town Council’s Environmental, Education and Enforcement Officer by emailing admin@falmouthtowncouncil.com or over the phone on 01326 315559.
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