The question of whether crime in St Mary's Bay increases during the tourist season is a common concern. Currently, definitive data directly linking tourist seasons to crime rate fluctuations in St Mary's Bay is unavailable. However, we can analyse the existing data to provide a contextual understanding.
St Mary's Bay, located within the Folkestone and Hythe district, has a population of 2550. Its reported crime rate is 51.4 incidents per 1,000 residents. This is significantly lower than the UK average of 91.6 incidents per 1,000, suggesting a generally safer environment than many other areas in the country. The area also benefits from a safety score of 86 out of 100, exceeding the UK average of 79, further reinforcing this perception of safety.
It’s important to note that a lower crime rate doesn’t guarantee the absence of crime. Any area, including St Mary's Bay, can experience fluctuations. Tourist seasons often bring increased foot traffic, which can, in some areas, correlate with a rise in petty crime such as theft or opportunistic burglaries. While we don't have specific data for St Mary's Bay's tourist season, it's a factor to consider.
While the overall safety score is high, residents and visitors should remain vigilant. General crime prevention practices, such as securing valuables and being aware of your surroundings, are always recommended. Reporting any suspicious activity to the local authorities is also crucial in maintaining the safety and security of the community. Further research into local police reports focusing on specific periods, particularly during peak tourist times, would be needed to definitively determine any correlation between tourism and crime in St Mary's Bay.