The announcement of more police patrols in Weymouth town centre this summer has been welcomed by the community.

On Wednesday, Dorset Police announced a boost in officers as part of its ‘100 days of summer’ campaign.

The campaign will see a greater number of officers patrolling key locations in the town centre from the end of May for 100 days to help tackle anti-social behaviour.

Cllr Ken Whatley, who represents Melcombe Regis on Weymouth Town Council, said: “I welcome this initiative from Dorset Police. Having spoken to Inspector Gosling it is something overdue, as we have to make the Esplanade, the train station and the town centre a welcoming place for visitors and residents alike. I urge everyone to report the slightest incident by phone 101 or email to 101@dorset.pnn.police.uk. Every small piece of information makes up a bigger picture for the police force.”

Cllr Jon Orrell, another town councillor, said: “This is a most welcome improvement. Many people miss seeing bobbies on the beat. It will give reassurance and mean the police are once more actively maintaining law and order rather than responding after an event.”

Claudia Moore, Chief Operations Officer of Weymouth BID, said: “Weymouth BID welcomes this Dorset Police initiative and hope that it visibly benefits Weymouth over the summer. They are to be congratulated on their approach to this and the much-improved communication to residents and businesses.”

Last year, Weymouth Neighbourhood Policing Team carried out patrols in hotspot areas of the town at key times.

This was said to have been positively received by members of the public, who were felt reassured to see a stronger police presence from uniformed officers.

During the campaign, police constables and police community support officers (PCSOs) will be visible around the town on a daily basis and will be supported by special constables. Officers will also be carrying out joint patrols with the Dorset Council community safety patrol officers.

Melcombe Regis Development Officer of Dorset Police, Police Constable Chris Meade, said: “We regularly receive feedback from the community that they want our officers to be out and about on foot patrol rather than on patrol in vehicles.

“We will be continuing our work with partners, including the British Transport Police, Dorset Council, Weymouth Town Council, BID, RNLI, The Lantern Trust, Julian House and REACH, throughout the initiative.

“We’re confident our ‘100 days of summer’ initiative will have a significant impact on the town centre and surrounding areas.”

Keep up to date on their work by following ‘Weymouth and Portland Police’ on Facebook and ‘@WeyPortPolice’ on Twitter and Instagram.

Alternatively, search the hashtag #100DaysofSummer