A festive night bus service in North Devon helped reduce crime rates significantly, with 881 passengers using it during key dates in November and December.
North Devon: The night bus service during the festive season was a hit. Devon & Cornwall Police reported that 881 passengers used it on busy nights in November and December.
This initiative aimed to reduce drink driving, anti-social behavior, and violence against women. The holiday season usually sees a rise in these offenses, so the bus service was timely.
Stagecoach operated the service, covering Bideford, Barnstaple, and Ilfracombe. It averaged 176 passengers each night, making it a popular choice.
The bus started on November 30, charging just £2 for a single ticket. This allowed people to leave their cars at home and enjoy their nights out safely.
Between Barnstaple and Bideford, 529 people used the bus, averaging 106 passengers per night. The route to Ilfracombe had 352 passengers, averaging 70 each evening.
Sergeant Dave Flynn from Devon & Cornwall Police noted the bus service was a great option for those enjoying the festive season. It helped people get home safely after a night out.
While it’s hard to measure how many crimes were prevented, the service made people feel more secure using public transport at night.
Thanks to Devon County Council and local district councils, the service was funded and made possible. It had also been offered in summer 2024 and winter 2023.
Barnstaple Sector Inspector Andy Wills expressed satisfaction that the bus helped keep people safe. It discouraged drivers from taking risks after drinking.
Data showed a drop in incidents in Barnstaple during the bus service’s operation. Overall incidents fell by about 11%, and anti-social behavior dropped by 16.3%.
The police run a seasonal campaign called Op Limit to combat drink and drug driving. Results from this campaign will be available soon.
Authorities hope to secure funding to continue the night bus service in North Devon later this year. Barnstaple and Bideford have received government support for increased police presence in key areas.
For updates on police campaigns, follow Devon & Cornwall Police on social media or sign up for alerts on crime prevention and witness appeals.
