ALCOHOL has been confiscated from youths and letters sent to their parents as part of a crackdown on anti-social behaviour in Haddington.

A focus on pockets of anti-social behaviour in Haddington, particularly in Neilson Park, began over the weekend of December 3 and 4, with increased patrols of East Lothian Council’s community wardens and police officers targeting large groups of youths gathering in the area.

The move is part of a new Problem Solving Partnership (PSP) between the council and Police Scotland which has been set up following recent concerns raised by the community.

A number of names of young people were taken by the police and parental advisory letters will be sent out. A quantity of alcohol was also confiscated.

As well as tackling reports of anti-social behaviour directly, neighbourhood outreach workers have been talking to young people about what other facilities they would like to see in and around Haddington.

Over the course of last weekend, the idea of a ‘youth shelter’ was suggested. This will be discussed further at the next meeting of the PSP later this month.

East Lothian Council anti-social behaviour manager Kenny Black said: “Patrols by community wardens and police officers were very visible last weekend and we think it is definitely having a quick deterrent effect on large gatherings of young people.

"We’re taking a twin track approach to tackling this issue – by dealing with anti-social behaviour as it happens but also talking to these young people to ascertain what could potentially be done to prevent this behaviour happening in the first place.

"There will be ongoing discussions with the group and further consultation with the community over the course of the operation and beyond."

Chief Inspector Matt Paden, local area commander for East Lothian, said: "My message to those involved is to behave responsibly and consider local residents. A partnership approach is being taken to addressing anti-social behaviour and at the same time providing diversionary activities.”

To report ongoing anti-social behaviour or other criminal activity, contact Police Scotland on 101 or make an anonymous report to the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, or alternatively East Lothian Anti-Social Behaviour Hotline on 0845 601 8518.