A PARTNERSHIP has been set up in a bid to tackle a spate of anti-social behaviour in Haddington.

Following recent complaints of anti-social behaviour involving large numbers of young people gathering in Neilson Park at weekends, Police Scotland, East Lothian Council and other partners agreed yesterday (Thursday) to set up a Problem Solving Partnership (PSP) in an effort to target this ongoing problem.

The initiative will continue over the next two months.

Local officers and officers from the East Lothian Community Action Team will carry out patrols in partnership with members of the council's Community Warden team.

A number of other options have been discussed and will include the use of council CCTV cameras during the initiative to identify and disrupt the groups of youths.

When youths are identified as being part of these groups, parental advisory letters will be sent to those involved.

Chief Inspector Matt Paden, Local Area Commander for East Lothian, said: "We recognise the impact that anti-social behaviour has on our communities and my officers, along with the Community Wardens from East Lothian Council, work hard to investigate all incidents of this nature reported to us.

"We are committed to keeping East Lothian a safe place to live, work and visit. I welcome this local initiative and would urge parents to be aware of where and what their children are doing during the weekend evenings.”

East Lothian Council ASB manager Kenny Black added: “East Lothian is recognised as a safe and enjoyable place to live; unfortunately, on occasions the actions of a minority of young people can cause disturbance to others in our communities. We are committed to tackling this issue by working closely with our partner agencies.

"If you would like to report ongoing antisocial behaviour or other criminal activity in your area, please contact police on 101, make an anonymous report to the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, or alternatively call the East Lothian Anti-social Behaviour Hotline on 0845 601 8518."