Preston has a population of approximately 10,000, which is very varied. It is situated between the busy towns of Torquay and Paignton. The coastal areas are populated by a number of guest houses, which overlook one of the best seafronts in the bay. Further inland is residential housing, which backs onto to the main business road that boasts a wide range of shops and small businesses. Beyond this area is more residential housing that rises to the top of Preston where many of the older community enjoy views across the whole of the Bay. Much of the activity, commercial, social and policing is focused on the main shopping area and seafront due to the busy summer periods.

Preston is a safe place to live with the likelihood of being a victim of crime being well below the national average. In addition the incidents of serious crime are very low indeed. The main problems appear to be individual incidents of minor criminal damage caused during the weekends. These incidents do not have any set pattern and are not regular occurrences. Although there are some problems with fear of crime, residents report that they feel safe in their own homes and local area. This fear is sometimes brought through peoples perception of groups congregating, but this is very low level behaviour.