Home News North East News

Police warn 'doggers' of a clampdown

Feb 15 2009 by Neil McKay, Sunday Sun

COPS across the region are hot on the trail of “doggers” after revealing that recent sub-zero temperatures have failed to cool the ardour of couples who enjoy sex outdoors . . . often with complete strangers.

Northumbria Police warned that they will clamp down on the practice after they reported an increase in incidents around Follingsby Lane between Wardley in Gateshead and Washington, Sunderland.

Officers reported cars parked nearby with men sending text messages inside.

And the area has been highlighted on a number of “dogging” and “cruising” websites as a hotspot for gay men.

Officers from Washington Neighbourhood Policing Team are now stepping-up patrols along the stretch of road.

They warn anyone caught having sex in public faces tough action.

Neighbourhood Inspector Dave Willett said: “We’ve seen an increase in men in this area of Washington meeting for sex. We’ll be conducting regular patrols and taking action against anyone committing public sex acts in Follingsby Lane.

“Our patrols will take the registration of any vehicles suspiciously parked and the owners may receive home visits.

“We will also be contacting the administrators of those websites, on which the area is being posted as a meeting point, to warn of the consequences they face.”

Keep up to date with the news. Sign up for News Alerts

Have your say on the latest news and sport in our Forums

Sunday Sun News Headlines

Conman Gurpem Singh, 36, of Farley Drive, Middlesbrough

Gurpem Singh jailed for £80,000 elderly con

TOURING the North in search of his vulnerable prey, heartless Gurpem Singh conned a succession of frail pensioners out of more than £80,000. Read

Swine flu outbreak at High Tunstall school

A NORTH school is at the centre of a swine flu outbreak after a pupil was infected with the potentially deadly virus. Read

Site Tools