YOUNGSTERS planning parties to celebrate exam success have been warned to stay away from Poppit Sands.

The area – designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest – has been plagued by anti-social behaviour problems in recent weeks.

St Dogmaels community councillors voiced their anger at the ongoing situation, which has seen litter strewn around the dunes, with broken glass and bottles and general anti-social behaviour.

Police patrols have been stepped up in the area and now, to coincide with the release of exam results which often leads to a rise in problems, youngsters have been told to steer clear or they could find themselves in trouble

A police spokesman said: “Historically and more recently youths have been gathering in Poppit to camp, consume alcohol and cause anti-social nuisance which is affecting the local residents. Police are currently investigating reports of damage to some of the facilities at the location.

“The police would like to remind members of the public that camping is not permitted at the beach or dunes as it is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).

“Due to the increased reports of anti-social behaviour in Poppit Sands, police have utilised legislation to disperse persons form the area. If any individual is found to be consuming alcohol, camping and causing anti-social behaviour they will be directed under Section 34 and 35 of the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014 to leave the area. Failure to comply with such an order is a criminal offence.

“The dispersal order will be effective from 1000hrs to 1000hrs on 17/08/17 – 18/08/17 (AS/A level examination result night) and 1000hrs to 1000hrs on 24/08/17 – 25/08/17 (GCSE examination result night). The dispersal notice includes both Poppit Sands beach and Gwbert.

“The police wish for the public to enjoy the beautiful countryside and coast line but wish for members of the public to be aware of the impact camping can have in the sand dunes.”

Pembrokeshire county councillor Mike James said: "The situation at Poppit dunes has improved and we are very grateful to Dyfed Powys Police for all they are doing.

"The next few weeks are going to be testing with exam results and celebrations. We congratulate everybody on their achievements.

"What we are looking for is respect to a very special area at Poppit Sands and to keep our Blue Flag status."