DS wants to go to Newquay post-GCSEs

[Banshee1N]

We've said no. He is sensible, doesn't drink and a lovely DS. But the horror stories we've read about Newquay has prompted our decision. A 16yo can leave school, get a job, fight for their country. Are we being over-protective, and has Newquay got better at dealing with underage drinking? Any advice greatly appreciated; feel very isolated at being the only parent who seems to have said no. Needless to say DS is unhappy at decision too, but is building his case to change our mind as we speak!

Newquay is really tough on underage drinkers, they are sent home if caught. It's a great place for teens and I would let him go if he is generally sensible. Give him the groundrules about staying safe. saying that, when is he planning on going? I would recommend waiting until finer weather and camping or better still, the boardmasters festival which both my Ds's go to. DS2 was 16 when he first went.

Out of my group of friends four of us were allowed to go to Dundee together in Year 11 and we had the best time. We went to Reading Festival together after our exams and loved it, we created great memories. My DH went to Newquay with friends after his exams. We will have no chance saying no to our kids

How is he paying for it? If he's got a job and paying himself I'd let him go , but I wouldn't hand over the cash unless he'd earned it himself

Thank you all so much for your replies. DS is planning to go July next year, after GCSEs with a large crowd from his year. They are organising themselves into groups of six and all plan to stay together throughout the trip. Have to say, they are a sensible bunch generally and do look out for each other. With regards to paying for it, he will have to earn this trip with chores. He has savings too to fund it. I'm relieved to hear that Newquay have put measures in place to combat underage drinking; that said I'm more worried about DS keeping himself safe, which I'm sure he will. So why am I so worried??

My son went to reading festival straight from getting his results. He had a ball. He did drink one night but came home kidneys intact.
I'd say yes but that's me. What a fantastic end to a stressful year. If he's sensible he will be fine.

Newquay is really strict on underage drinkers as well as big groups now.

It's safer than it's ever been imo. I think the fact that it was in the limelight for all the wrong reasons really helped it turn itself around.

I feel perfectly safe walking around at night.

He'll find it very hard to find places to stay though!