This week’s crime update has taken a different format to reflect the up and coming events across the town.

Over the period between August 9th to 16th 12 arrests were made: -

2x assault actual bodily harm
2x common assault
3 x positive breath test – drink drive
1 x warrant for failing to appear in court
1x disorderly behaviour
1x criminal damage
1 x possession of class A controlled drugs
1x obtaining services by deception

Bridport Carnival

The Bridport Carnival will take place on Saturday 19th August the procession will form up in St Swithuns Road from 4pm. Numerous vehicles will be located in and around this area prior to the parade formally beginning at approximately 7.30pm. For this to happen safely and to allow the parade to manoeuvre, there will be a no parking enforcement in this area from 12midday in St Swithuns and other adjacent streets. I ask that residents and visitors move their vehicles and park elsewhere for the duration of this. The only access that will be granted will be for vehicles in the procession and emergency vehicles.

During the procession stewards will walk along side the vehicles involved in the procession to allow donations to be given. I ask that spectators stay back from the road and ensure any young persons under supervision are kept back as not to risk going near moving vehicles.

In certain areas along the route barriers will be in place so that spectators can view the procession in safety.

Road closure signage will be in place giving advance notice to drivers as they approach Bridport on the A35. Ultimately there maybe frustrations and the potential for delay to the traffic will increase around peak times. I ask that patience be exercised and enjoy the procession if possible.

Torchlight procession

The annual Bridport Torchlight Procession will commence at 9pm on Sunday 20th August.  I will start the procession at this time and will move off from area adjacent to Bucky-Doo Square, South Street, proceeding down, and cross over the A35 at the Crown roundabout. A temporary road closures will be in place as the procession crosses the A35. The parade will then continue to the East Beach car park in West Bay and culminate with a bonfire and fireworks display in the same area.  Families of all ages attend to join in with this very symbolic annual event in the Bridport calendar. 

Melplash Show

The Melplash Agricultural society will hold it’s annual show in the fields to the west of the West Bay Road on Thursday 24th of August. The event will run from 10am to 6pm. Public visiting the event will only be allowed access via the A35 at the Swallowdale Nursery.

Stewards will not allow non-event vehicular traffic on the West Bay road and you will have to follow the relevant directions to take you to the public entrance.

On a final note I hope that public and participants alike enjoy the events taking place in the Bridport area.

Anti social behaviour in any form that could spoil the events will not be tolerated, officers will act robustly if needed to prevent or arrest anyone spoiling these important events in the Bridport calendar. 

PC 2232 Scott McGregor
Community Beat Officer