The 'bit dangerous' Yorkshire seaside town with 'dark side' once the sun goes down

As the sun dips below the horizon, a well-loved UK seaside town's darker side surfaces, inciting fear among both residents and visitors.

Scarborough, renowned for its inviting coastal charm and recently hosting talents like Richard Hawley, has an underbelly of unease. Issues with alcohol, homelessness, and rowdiness have sullied the town's image, causing deep concern over rising crime rates which paint a grim picture of this beloved holiday spot.

In response to the escalating disorder in the town centre, local authorities have enforced a ban on street drinking in hopes of quelling disturbances, reports the Mirror.

Scarborough regulars Diane Sycamore, 53, and her husband, 49, who were in town for Hawley's performance, remarked on the noticeable shift they've witnessed: "We have been here lots of times before - we also visit Whitby and do both. It seems to be quite deprived. I think in the town centre itself there's a lot of social issues."

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Diane highlighted the housing crisis as a key concern, stating: "Housing is an issue as you do see quite a lot of homelessness - it would be good to get people off the streets." Her husband felt the atmosphere has grown more tense, noting things seem "a bit more on edge" than his past visits. Meanwhile, Joanne Sullivan, 47, from Acklam, acknowledged the appeal of Scarborough's central area, amidst the prevailing challenges.

Anne Dales, 67, opened up about life since moving to the area from Driffield: "We do come here very often - everything is central and I just like it. But we have noticed a few beggars and homeless people - but that seems to be everywhere now. I don't think I would feel comfortable walking around at night."

She further lamented the lack of job prospects in Scarborough: "We thought there would be job prospects, but there hasn't been a lot. I wouldn't say that we have enjoyed living here. No I wouldn't feel comfortable [at night] you have got a lot of people swearing and looking for fights."

Meanwhile, Scarborough local David Wharton, 62, expressed his fondness for the town: "Scarborough is up there as being one of the top destinations. I don't think I could live anywhere else. It's in our blood."

Lachlan Bradley, 23, who works at Pier Snack Bar and Grill, also shared his thoughts: "For a small town it can be a bit dangerous. The main issue is alcohol and drugs."

Additionally, he noted that some parts of Scarborough are showing signs of neglect: "Some bits are run down. Bits are decaying. There are less people since it had its heyday. It's not as bad as some people say - but I wouldn't walk alone in some areas. I know some bad characters no matter what the time of day."

While Mike Crofts, 64, suggested that the area might be "past its best", Caroline Bowne, 60, showcased optimism about the seaside town's future: "Despite the assessment from Mike Crofts, 64, who says the area is 'past its best,' there was much to enjoy about the 'gorgeous' city."

She continued with her positive perspective: "I think Scarborough is on the up. There are a lot of holiday makers and day trippers. I love it. It's absolutely beautiful."

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A spokesperson for North Yorkshire Police stated: "North Yorkshire Police works collaboratively with North Yorkshire Council in Scarborough town to combat crime and disorder and to make it a safe space for residents, businesses and visitors alike."

"The night-time economy is well-managed by licensed premises thanks to the collective efforts of Licensing departments within both the police and council working alongside the Scarborough Neighbourhood Policing Team."

"We have a variety of operations in place around prevention and early intervention. These include Operation Vigilant which involves specialist behaviour detection techniques to identify those who pose harm to woman and girls, and 'hotspot' policing patrols using intelligence to clamp down on anti-social behaviour. We also have Operation Culture focusing on street drinkers which is significant concern in our community."