I AM GROWING increasingly concerned at the rising numbers of reports of anti-social behaviour in my constituency. We must not let this problem grow and persist throughout the spring and summer, causing upset to individuals, businesses, and communities.

Everyone has the right to feel safe in their communities and under no circumstances should any individual feel scared to leave their homes. The impact anti-social behaviour can have must not be underestimated.

In previous years, we have seen Lothian Buses and other businesses in the surrounding area taking a stance against anti-social behaviour. It is upsetting to see businesses having to take such measures as they should not be operating in fear of abuse, intimidation or vandalism. Anti-social behaviour should never be tolerated in Scotland and we must find a way to tackle this effectively.

I have regular meetings with East Lothian Council and Police Scotland to discuss any issues rising in my constituency and will further be in contact with the new Minister for Victims and Community Safety to discuss what better action can be taken to help prevent these issues in future.

It is important these incidents are reported and no one suffers in silence. I would urge anyone worried about this issue to report them to both Police Scotland on 101 and East Lothian Council’s anti-social behaviour team online or by calling 01875 824307. Any constituents worried about this issue can also contact my office at Colin.Beattie.MSP@parliament.scot

In other local and more positive news, I had the pleasure of visiting Musselburgh Grammar School to celebrate S2 and S3 pupils showcasing the work they had undertaken as part of a writing project. S2 pupils created a collection of short stories called ‘The Grammar Sagas’ and S3 learners created a guidebook for Musselburgh ‘A Journey Through Musselburgh’. Both books are fantastic and I would encourage anyone to grab a copy. A massive well done to the pupils involved!