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Exeter police proud of newly announced Purple Flag status |
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Exeter has been awarded Purple Flag accreditation which recognises places where people can enjoy a safe night out with confidence. The Purple Flag is an internationally recognised award that celebrates towns and cities which offer a safe, well-managed and vibrant evening and night-time economy, supported by strong partnership working, good transport connections and a clear focus on safety and wellbeing. Sergeant Jim Wellard leads on policing of the evening and night-time economy (ENTE) in Exeter. He said “Over the last 18 months, we have made significant and much needed changes to the way we police Exeter in the evening. “We have implemented Public Space Protection Orders which provide our officers with powers to disperse individuals causing issues from the city centre, and we have used statistics and detailed crime information to structure two-phase patrols which ensure we have a policing presence in the right areas at the right times. “The Purple Flag award is a huge achievement for the city and highlights the fantastic work the neighbourhood policing team have done to increase the visibility of police in the evening economy and focus on safety - particularly of women and girls - at night between 17:00 and 05: on Friday and Saturday nights. “We will continue to work closely with our partners to make Exeter a safe and enjoyable place for everyone.” Statistics from 2025 show evening incidents of anti-social behaviour in Exeter have reduced by 16% compared with data from 2024. Credit for this has been largely attributed to partnership working and proactive drug patrols in night clubs, as well as spot checks on the Ask Angela initiative and increased offerings of non-alcoholic drinks available to party-goers who choose not to drink. Inspector Nathan Johnson leads the Exeter Neighbourhood Policing team and was involved in the preparation for the Purple Flag assessment. He said “I am delighted and proud that Exeter has been granted the prestigious Purple Flag status for the very first time. “This demonstrates the value of partnership efforts which take place every day of the year to keep Exeter safe for people living in, working in or visiting the area. “The success of this achievement is thanks to the collaboration between InExeter, Devon & Cornwall Police, Exeter City Council, Exeter College and the University of Exeter, as well as transport providers, cultural venues and local businesses. “Exeter has a lot to offer we will continue to keep people spending time in our vibrant and cultured city safe and secure.” The accreditation follows a comprehensive external assessment from Association of Town and City Management (ATCM) who commended Exeter's inaugural Purple Flag application for its diverse night-time economy, strong partnerships, and prioritised safety agenda. Nicola Wheeler, CEO at InExeter added, “We’re absolutely delighted that Exeter has been awarded the prestigious Purple Flag accreditation. “This achievement highlights Exeter as an exceptional city for a night out Our businesses and partners are committed to ensuring the wellbeing of all who come to enjoy the evening atmosphere. “Exeter offers an outstanding and vibrant night-time experience for people of all ages, with an ever-growing programme of diverse events and activities.” Purple Flag status reflects Exeter’s coordinated approach to managing the city after dark, underpinned by visible policing, expanded CCTV coverage, late-night transport options and a growing programme of cultural, community and family-friendly activity. For the latest policing updates in Exeter, follow the local team on Facebook. | ||
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