REGATTA revelers are being reminded to drink responsibly this year, as they could face fines of up to £500.

The Port of Dartmouth Royal Regatta is one of the biggest events in the calendar and this year the organisers, local council and police are working together to help make the event safe and enjoyable for everyone.

The police will have extra officers on patrol during the regatta and South Hams Council is erecting additional signs to remind people about the rules on drinking in public areas.

Insp Andy Tomlinson said: 'The Regatta is a fantastic community and family event. Unfortunately every year a small number of people threaten to spoil this through their irresponsible behaviour.

'Officers will be strictly enforcing the alcohol restrictions for anyone acting in an anti-social way and spoiling the event for others.'

SHC will be putting up large, temporary signs spelling out which areas are 'Alcohol Control Zones' in an effort to raise awareness and assist police.

These are in addition to the permanent, smaller signs that inform the public about the rules on drinking alcohol in a designated public place such as the park and ride, town centre and local parks.

Cllr Jonathan Hawkins, executive member for environmental health and Housing at SHC, said: 'We want people to enjoy themselves during the regatta but we also want to encourage a pleasant, safe atmosphere.

'The signs should not be a barrier to people having a picnic and a glass of wine but they are a tool to help the police deal with anti-social behaviour and alcohol-related incidents.' 

People who refuse to stop drinking when asked by the police could face a fine of up to £500 or risk arrest.

SHC, police and local licensees have been holding meetings in the run up to the regatta about the best way to make the event enjoyable for everyone.

The temporary Alcohol Control Zone signs will be in place from Thursday August 22 to Monday September 2.

For more information contact the alcohol licensing office at SHC on 01803 861234.