A GROUP which tackles anti-social behaviour and underage drinking in Dunbar has been reformed.

The town’s problem-solving partnership (PSP) brought together organisations including Police Scotland and East Lothian Council.

A number of concerns about anti-social behaviour and alcohol misuse, particularly in Lochend Woods and the Hallhill area of the town, have been passed on to police in recent months.

Last month, Chief Inspector Neil Mitchell, local area commander, made an appeal to parents and carers to help combat underage drinking.

Now, the town’s PSP has been reformed with a view to tackling the problem.

Dunbar Community Council met before Christmas and received a report from Police Constable Chris Hutchison.

He said: “On December 8, Dunbar Problem Solving Partnership was resuscitated after recent anti-social behaviour complaints regarding alcohol misuse and associated anti-social behaviour in the area near to Lochend Woods and the surrounding residential area.

“A further meeting is scheduled for January 2021.

“Community police officers will continue to monitor and patrol the area on Friday and Saturday nights as appropriate.

“Other partners are looking at developing ideas/solutions with a view to reducing the current levels of anti-social behaviour in the area.”

The report also highlighted that alcohol had been seized from a 14-year-old on the town’s Kellie Road.

The parents of the teenager were informed.

PC Hutchison added: “A total of eight calls have been made to the area regarding public nuisance and appear linked to the ongoing PSP.”

In his open letter, Chief Inspector Mitchell highlighted that officers had been subjected to “unacceptable abusive language and abusive behaviour”.

He highlighted that some youngsters had been taken to hospital because of the amount of alcohol they hadconsumed.

The officer encouraged parents to ensure children and young people were not able to access alcohol at home.

He added: “If they come home drunk, please challenge them and prevent it from happening again.

“It may be that your child is not the one committing any particular offence but if they are in a group of youths, some of whom are committing crimes, we will take action against everyone.

“Working with us will reduce the disorder and prevent your children being brought home by my officers.

“Officers have already charged some youths and several have been taken home in drunken states.

“My officers are working alongside East Lothian Council community wardens and they have seized significant amounts of alcohol and charged a number of youths for anti-social behaviour related offences.

“They have visited local shops reminding them of their responsibilities and carried out high-visibility patrols.”

An update on the issue is also likely to be given to the town’s community and police partnership (CAPP), which will meet virtually for the first time on Tuesday.