Causeway Coast and Glens Superintendent, Yvonne McManus said: “We want to reassure the public that our policing teams will be on duty for everyone’s safety, particularly around busy transport stations, hospitality establishments, residential areas and beaches.

“With increased visitor numbers expected to the coast, there will inevitably be more congestion on our roads, due to large volumes of people moving in and around Portrush and Portstewart.

“Our ask is that everyone needs to expect such delays and to be patient, utilise the car parking facilities available and plan extra time for their journey.

“We will also be working with our partners from Translink and council directing traffic to car parks and any overflow car parks to minimise disruption where possible.”

Superintendent McManus, continued: “Over the weekend, officers will also be conducting operations to ensure vehicles in the area are road-worthy and would like to remind all road users planning to visit, that any form of anti-social driving or reckless behaviour in general will not be tolerated – that includes excessive speeds in coastal areas, dangerous driving or any practice that puts the lives of other road users at risk.

“Our officers are very much aware of car cruising and ‘diffing’ practices, which is a type of donut manoeuvre, becoming more popular on our roads.

“But we will not tolerate unsafe driving or anti-social behaviour linked with car meets on our public roads and spaces.

“It only takes a split second for a tragedy to occur on our narrow roads and we have sadly lost 20 people on roads across Northern Ireland this year already, we do not want to see this number increase. Please don’t rush, don’t take any risks, be patient with other road users and arrive safely.

"Our focus will also be on preventing Violence Against Women and Girls. Our teams will be looking out for those engaging in anti-social behaviour in and around our public spaces. We would like to remind anyone planning on staying in the area, to enjoy what the bustling nightlife has to offer, but to do so respectfully, being mindful of local residents and their property, and to ensure they get home safely. There are public transport services via Translink and numerous local taxi companies available in the town that can be utilised.

“Please drink responsibly, look out for one another and your drinks, taking necessary precautions against any potential spiking. Familiarise yourselves with our Ask for Angela scheme and seek assistance from members of staff in licensed premises, if you believe you’re in danger. We also don’t want to see any young person underage drinking, as this can have wide-ranging consequences in regards to future career opportunities, however, the law exists for a reason and it is our job to enforce it.

“Finally, please enjoy all the North Coast has to offer, and remember that together we can encourage safer roads, safer communities and safer socialising”.