BCP Council have stepped up patrols of the seafront as they aim to crack down on beach campers over the half term break.

The council have said that overnight beach campers can expect “an uncomfortable night’s sleep” with staff carrying out regular patrols of the beach over the Bank Holiday weekend.

Those caught camping overnight on the beachfront can be prosecuted and fined up to £1,000.

The council are exploring a conurbation-wide public spaces protection order following a number of incidents involving beach campers last year.

A council spokesman said: “Our 24-hour beach patrol were in operation this Bank Holiday weekend to deal with anyone who tries to camp overnight on our beaches.

“Anyone who chooses to camp can expect an uncomfortable night’s sleep as our Beach Patrol team will repeatedly visit them to gather evidence before taking that prosecution action.

“Anyone attempting to camp overnight on the beach risks prosecution and a £1,000 fine.”