PEOPLE planning get togethers over the summer holidays are being urged to make sure 'sociable' doesn't become anti-social in a new police campaign.

To help prevent and address problems often faced by emergency services and local authorities in the summer, police patrols will be out in force at popular green spaces, National Trust and coastal areas over the holidays to offer support to members of the public.

Our annual Beachsafe and Parksafe programmes will also see increased police presence on foot, in patrol cars, and on quad bikes in Wirral, Liverpool City Centre and across Merseyside.

Chief Superintendent Zoe Thornton said: "We want everyone to enjoy the summer holidays.

"Given the impact of Coronavirus and the sacrifices we've all made over the last year, it feels more important and valuable than ever to be in the outdoors with loved ones and sharing good times.

"Police are here to support this and help ensure everyone can do so safely - we know the actions of a few inconsiderate people can affect the wider community so please, as ever, think about others when you park, play music, get rid of your litter for instance.

"Showing respect for each other will prevent you spoiling it for yourself and others.

"We know that the vast majority of people are responsible and look out for each other.

"But anyone - regardless of age - who is violent or found carrying a knife or drugs can expect to be dealt with robustly by our officers."

A mini social media campaign will offer a reminder of how people can all behave responsibly and help everyone enjoy the summer months safely.

Key messages include:

  • Park responsibly - don't park in front of people’s driveways or block roads, use designated car parks instead
  • Take your rubbish home with you - recycle as much as you can!
  • Campfires and barbeques - these are banned due to wildfire risk help to support local businesses by not behaving anti-socially talk to young people about where they're going and encourage them to stick together if out and about
  • Check the tides and lifeguard advices before going for a dip

Report incidents of anti-social behaviour by calling 101 or via our website: www.merseysidepolice.uk.

Don't forget, reports that are not urgent can be made via @MerPolCC on Twitter or 'Merseyside Police Contact Centre' on Facebook.

Always call 999 in an emergency.