Extra police patrols across Brean, Berrow and Burnham-on-Sea have proved a huge success.

Police implemented high visibility policing and crime reduction initiatives last weekend in the resorts to set the summer standard of policing for the area.

Officers were out and about in the community as part of a high visibility public reassurance campaign and to act as a deterrent to criminals.

As a result of the proactive work, the weekend saw lower crime levels in comparison to previous bank holidays.

During the operation, more than 20 people were searched for drugs resulting in two men being arrested and cautioned for drug possession offences. Further to this, nine alcohol seizures where made for underage drinking and drinking in the street, six tickets were issued for traffic offences and a missing child was located.

Officers also carried out Crime Reduction and Property Marking displays at Berrow, which attracted hundreds of visitors, each receiving UV property marking for their mobile phones and other crime reduction advice.

Random drug testing and searches took place at several licensed establishments premises in Burnham, Brean and Berrow, along with a number of licensing checks and high visibility patrols.

Leaflets outlining crime prevention tips for caravan and car owners and personal safety were also distributed.

Inspector Sam Williams said: "This operation was a great success for the area. Burnham, Berrow and Brean are very safe places to both live and visit and the Avon and Somerset Constabulary are determined for it to stay that way during the busy summer season.

"These operations were to show that we care about our visitors and residents alike. We welcome visitors to the area and we aim to make everyone's time here safe, enjoyable and crime-free.

"Neither we nor our communities will tolerate crime or anti-social behaviour. The community feedback I have received has been hugely rewarding for my team.

"This is the second such operation following on from an Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) initiative, bringing a number of resources across the area together, to tackle a community raised issue.

"Crime has seen a dramatic reduction from bank holiday periods and the standard is now set for the summer months."