FISHERROW Harbour has been described as “out of control” after increasing reports of anti-social behaviour in the area.

The recent spell of warm weather has seen youths venture out to enjoy the county coastline, with many socialising by the pier and harbour areas at Fisherrow.

Scores of young people have been seen at the harbour on any given day, swimming in the water near fishing vessels and using inflatables in the water.

A local boat owner contacted the Courier to highlight the anti-social behaviour plaguing the harbour, describing it as “mayhem”. In one alleged incident, a “distraught” mother approached him after her daughters had been pushed into the water by a young man.

He said: “A maybe 20-year-old man was out his face and pushed her two daughters – who were about nine or 10 – into the water.”

The man, who did not want to be named, also said that youngsters were playing a game called “suicide tig” where two youths would run off the end of the pier attempting to touch boats leaving the harbour.

They would then swim under the boats perilously close to the blades.

'Someone's going to get mangled'

He added: “It’s incredibly dangerous – someone’s going to get mangled.

“It’s totally out of control and it needs to be highlighted.”

It was also claimed that those involved were inebriated, drinking alcohol and taking drugs by the pier.

The harbour user added: “The smell of weed would knock you over.”

He and other concerned harbour users do not wish to reveal their identities for fear that their boats could be targeted by the youths.

Some have already been damaged by bricks being thrown and rubbish bins being emptied into the vessels.

He added: “None of the boat owners will challenge the youths because they will target your boat.”

'Police in riot gear'

Police presence has been observed in the area when “six police officers in full riot gear” attempted to disperse a group of about 200 youths but, according to the harbour user, they were “laughed off” and the youths remained.

East Lothian Council has acknowledged the ongoing anti-social behaviour problem and says it is ensuring that measures are in place to tackle the issue.

A council spokesperson said: “East Lothian Council is aware of the ongoing issues at Fisherrow Harbour that have increased during the recent spell of good weather.

“The area is subject to regular community warden and neighbourhood outreach worker patrols.

“Officers are engaging with young people and are providing advice on water safety and the effects of anti-social behaviour on others.

“In addition, the council has deployed a mobile CCTV camera to the area.

“Action has been taken against a number of individuals under the council’s anti-social behaviour policy.”

'Dangerous and causing disruption'

Musselburgh MSP Colin Beattie shared his concerns for local fishermen and assured the public that he would engage with officials to tackle the problem.

He said: “I am concerned at the reports of increasing anti-social behaviour in Musselburgh.

“Not only are these reports dangerous but causing disruption for local fishermen.

“This behaviour is entirely unacceptable and could have serious consequences.

“I will be seeking assurance from Police Scotland and East Lothian Council that these issues will be dealt with urgently and appropriately.”

Inspector Dougie Wardell of Police Scotland said: “Tackling anti-social behaviour is a priority for our Local Policing Teams as we know it has a huge impact on communities.

“We are aware of a number of incidents of anti-social behaviour around the area of Fisherrow Harbour in Musselburgh and therefore our Community Policing officers and Council Wardens have focussed on this area over the past few months.

“Youth Outreach workers have also been engaging with groups in the area and we have seen a marked reduction in criminality and disorder as a result of this.

“Anyone with any concerns about their community should contact Police via 101.”

Fisherrow Harbour & Seafront Association declined to comment.