A CRACKDOWN on anti-social behaviour has been launched after reports of youths “acting in a disorderly manner and carrying out acts of vandalism”.

Police Scotland and East Lothian Council have vowed to work together to stamp out the issue throughout Prestonpans, Cockenzie and Port Seton.

A multi-agency Problem Solving Partnership (PSP), which will involve other organisations as well, has been established.

Police have been aware of “groups of youths gathering and causing concern in the community”.

They said “this type of behaviour will never be tolerated” and “robust action” is being taken to address the problem.

Police Scotland’s Local Area Commander for East Lothian, Chief Inspector Neil Mitchell said: “We have seen recent incidents of anti-social behaviour and violence in Prestonpans, Cockenzie and Port Seton perpetrated by young people which are completely unacceptable and will not be tolerated.

“We have already taken significant action in this regard and a number of young people have been reported for offences.

“I want to reassure local people that Police Scotland are committed to working in partnership with East Lothian Council and other agencies to tackle these issues.

“We are determined to utilise all options at our disposal as a partnership to deal with those individuals responsible.

“In the coming days and weeks ahead, we will have additional officers on patrol along with council wardens and CCTV to combat the issue and provide public reassurance.

“I urge you to report all anti-social behaviour to us on the 101 number or 999 in an emergency and if you can please provide any names or descriptions of those responsible to assist us in identifying them.”

Members of the PSP will work to identify those responsible for anti-social behaviour, as well as looking at longer-term solutions to make the area safe for everyone while providing activities to divert those involved.

Kenneth Black, East Lothian Council’s safer communities team manager, said they would be working alongside different groups to address the matters.

He said: “East Lothian Council is working alongside partners in addressing the anti-social behaviour that has come to the fore in recent weeks.

“Alongside looking to extend the level of youth provision within the local area, additional outreach worker patrols will allow for increased positive engagement with young people.

“Community reassurance will be provided by enhanced community warden patrols and the deployment of additional mobile CCTV cameras.

“Officers will also work alongside colleagues from Police Scotland in addressing the behaviour of those identified as having behaved anti-socially.”