POLICE in Poole are to tackle the large gatherings of teenagers who gather at Poole’s beaches during the summer evenings.

The Neighbourhood Team (NPT) will be looking out for groups of youths gathered in groups of more than 10 from this weekend.

Officers will be disposing of alcohol in a bid to stop the underage drinking and insist it is “non-negotiable and based on the law”.

It follows a number of assaults last year because of underage drinking and drugs, as well as one sexual assault.

Poole Police said: “We want everyone to be able to enjoy Poole’s beaches, we are very lucky to have such a well-maintained outdoor space.

“The Prescence of Poole NPT is to ensure this is undertaken in a responsible and respectful manner, whilst seeking to protect younger members of our communities from being victims of crime. Especially from older individuals seeking to target youngsters who have become vulnerable because they are intoxicated.”

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Operation Sandman, which will run until September, allows the Patrol Department to focus on 999 calls and proactive policing.

On just one night last year, police were alerted a group of 150 sixth formers on Kite Beach in Sandbanks celebrating the last day of term, five fires had to be put out and a man was arrested after he assaulted two police officers trying to break up a fight after a victim was bottled.

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As well as this, a man was dealt with “robustly” for throwing a glass bottle into the sea.

In a Facebook post, Poole Police has given advice to teenagers intending to gather during the summer evenings.

It includes keeping groups to 10 or less, having a fully charged phone and an awareness of the locator app ‘what3words’ – to allow emergency services to locate people easily.

The police also advised teenagers to be respectful to local residents living near the beach, especially after 11pm.