Crackdown on illegal parking near popular North Devon beach after surge in visitors during lockdown

The new warning follows weeks of reminders from police officers about not parking on double yellow lines. Credit: @BrauntonPolice

Police are urging drivers to stop parking on double yellow lines after a surge in the number of people parking illegally on a popular Devon beach.

Devon and Cornwall Police posted a warning on their Braunton Neighbourhood Facebook page after several cars were ticketed by enforcement officers in Woolacombe.

It comes after numerous warnings that cars are blocking vital access points for the emergency services.

Car parks at the beach remain closed but the easing of lockdown restrictions has led to an influx of visitors.

Car parks in Woolacombe are closed during the lockdown. Credit: ITV West Country

A Devon and Cornwall Police spokesperson said: "Please visit another of our wonderful beaches (which are) all in close proximity to each other - until the village is open again."

Drivers are being reminded that "Woolacombe car parks are still closed and the esplanade is full".

Normally hugely popular, Woolacombe beach was almost deserted last week. Credit: ITV West Country

Woolacombe a week ago, Wednesday 20 May

On May 20 pictures showed the same problem - cars and vans parking on double yellow lines between Woolacombe and Mortehoe.

A police officer tweeted the images and said the "offences have been recorded and will be processed in due course."