Those caught vandalising property should “spend the weekend in jail”, according to a Tranent councillor.

Concerns have been raised about the volume of vandalism and graffiti in Tranent, following a break-in at Sunshine Studio Tanning on Bridge Street, a window smashed at Greggs on nearby High Street, and vandalism to the town’s public toilets.

Councillor Kenny McLeod, ward councillor for Tranent, Wallyford and Macmerry, said that he felt a “zero-tolerance” approach should be taken with vandals.

He said: “These incidents are the kind of things that good-quality CCTV should be picking up so hopefully there is more of that put in.

“It is just mindless vandalism; they don’t realise the damage they are doing to the town.

“I believe there should be zero tolerance for it. If they are caught on a Friday they should spend the weekend in jail. It will do them the world of good.

“I understand people may think that is harsh, but I believe there should be zero tolerance for it.”

Fellow ward councillor Fiona Dugdale has held meetings with East Lothian Council and Tranent Colts to discuss combating the issue.

Councillor Lee-Anne Menzies said that she had been in contact with police regarding graffiti and vandalism.

She said: “It seems to be mostly High Street that is being targeted.

“We had the tanning studio broken into and there was graffiti at Mr Crolla’s fish and chip shop too.

“I know the council, police and councillors are trying to work to tackle this.

“But we also need to make sure we can find out if it is indeed kids doing this.

“We don’t know that for certain. These initiatives can only work when tailored to the right groups.”

A spokesperson for East Lothian Council said: “The council works closely with its partners in addressing all forms of anti-social behaviour.

“We would encourage members of the public to report all acts of criminality to Police Scotland on 101.

“Requests for the removal of graffiti can be reported to the council on 01620 827827.”