Those visiting coastal towns to make the most of the hot weather have been warned by police following a series of “unacceptable” disturbances on beaches, roads, and train stations.
Parts of the UK, including the North West of England, saw the hottest Bank holiday Monday on record on 23 May, with temperatures soaring above 30 degrees.
Thousands traveled to local hotspots to enjoy the sunshine, but authorities say the subsequent disruption to local residents and businesses was “unacceptable.”
Officers dealt with “multiple” reports of disorder as large crowds attempt to make their way home from the beaches, Merseyside Police said.
Sefton Council also confirmed more than 700 parking fines were issued over the bank holiday weekend.
It said: “Unfortunately, this weekend saw some visitors, who flock to Sefton from across the whole of the North West and beyond, park in this way.
“Inconsiderate and illegally parking on residential streets near to beaches can make pavements unusable and inaccessible for some.
“It could also prevent emergency vehicles such as ambulances and fire engines from reaching incidents at the beaches themselves and in local people’s homes.”
Superintendent Phil Mullally appealed directly to day-trippers to remain patient and show respect to the local community.
In a statement, on Bank Holiday Monday, he said: “We are receiving multiple reports of disturbances at train stations, on beaches and the roads.
“While we are dealing with these reports, the demand and disruption being caused to other visitors, businesses and residents is unacceptable.
“My advice to anyone visiting our coastline today is please be patient and respectful as you make your way home.
“Check the following places for any travel advice, cancellations and issues on the roads, and please respect those who live in these areas.”
He added: “The wonderful weather should be enjoyed, but not at the expense of other people on the roads and living in our communities. Thank you for your cooperation and stay safe.”
Sefton Council said over 700 parking fines were issued across the bank holiday weekend. Credit: ITV News
Subscribe free to our weekly newsletter for exclusive and original coverage from ITV News. Direct to your inbox every Friday morning.
Sefton Council also urged visitors to act responsibly when visiting beaches.
A statement said: “While Sefton Council fully understands why visitors want to visit its beautiful coastline, and welcomes them, this should not be at the cost, inconvenience or safety of local residents.
“Further reports of anti-social behaviour were reported to Sefton Council, with staff from its Green Sefton service diverted from their regular maintenance and community work to deal with its effects, including littering and damage to toilet facilities.”
Service Manager for the Council’s Green Sefton service Mark Shaw said: “We have always said that we welcome visitors to our coastline.
All we ask is that they act responsibly when they come here, show some consideration for the local people who live here all year round and respect the coast.
“We also ask them to leave the place as they find it, which might mean taking your rubbish away with you.
“That’s not too much to ask and if people can’t manage that or want to engage in unacceptable anti-social behaviour, we’d prefer that they went elsewhere.”
The police and council are urging people to act responsibly at the beach. Credit: ITV News
With significant congestion reported on both the road and rail networks, transport authorities are advising travellers to check live updates before starting their journeys.
Motorists are also being firmly reminded of their responsibilities when choosing where to leave their vehicles near coastal areas.
Authorities have stated that beach-going motorists must park responsibly in designated areas or they will face strict parking fines from Sefton Council.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) issued its first amber health alert of 2026, warning that there is a risk of a significant impact across health and social care services.
The alert will remain in place until 27 May.
Reporting History sees journalists join News At Ten anchor Tom Bradby to revisit their remarkable on-the-day reports of the defining events of the modern age. Listen to the episodes below…