Devon and Cornwall Police are calling on tourists and South Hams communities to respect the region after record 999 calls and increased levels of anti-social behaviour and public order incidents.

The weekend of August 8 and 9 saw 2,301 999 calls an increase of 27 per cent from last year, and up to August 10, this month has already seen 9,622 999 calls received, again a significant increase. Online webchat demand has also doubled.

Despite record levels of demand, a force spokesperson said performance levels had been kept high and police had managed to cope with the many thousands more people in the region during the recent good weather.

The message from police, partner agencies and tourism bosses is clear – Devona nd Cornwall is largely full to current capacity, so book ahead before you travel.

Assistant Chief Constable Jim Colwell said: “We have seen some unprecedented demand at the weekend, particularly in our control rooms, but I am immensely proud how all of our frontline staff have dealt with the plethora of different incidents they have attended.

“While resourcing is undoubtedly a challenge at this time of year, this summer appearing to be more than previous years, we remain buoyant and our communities and visitors alike can be reassured we will do our utmost to protect them and provide a first-class service.

“Our regular officers and staff have been going above and beyond to carry out their duties and have been very ably assisted by our colleagues in the Devon and Cornwall Special Constabulary, who have given more than 7,000 hours of voluntary service since June – more than 1,000 shifts supporting frontline duties.”