A NEW campaign to increase safety in coastal towns has been launched by North Yorkshire Police.

Project Kraken is a week of engagement in towns including Whitby, Filey and Scarborough to increase vigilance and help protect coastal neighbourhoods from crime.

From Monday, police officers and partner agencies will distribute flyers and information as part of the national police maritime crime and counter terrorism initiative advising people to be on the look out for suspicious activities.

Superintendent Glyn Payne, Safer Neighbourhood Commander for the Scarborough and Ryedale District, said: “North Yorkshire’s coastline covers approximately 40 miles of beaches, secluded coves, cliffs, harbours and marinas and it is vital that people who live, work and visit the area are alert to any unusual or suspicious behaviour.

“Local people act as the eyes and ears of the police and provide us with valuable information. They know their own communities and know what looks out of place. This could be unusual vessels, people or cargo, or activity in secluded and hidden areas of the coast."

To report suspicious activity, concerns or incidents, phone North Yorkshire Police on 101, email projectkraken@northyorkshire.pnn.police.uk or phone Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111.