SECURITY guards have been introduced at Helensburgh Central station - a first for Scotland's rail network - amid fears of a staff boycott of local train services over safety concerns.

Members of the train driver's union, ASLEF, have said they may refuse to work on trains west of Dumbarton because of anti-social behaviour by young people in and around the station and ongoing threats to rail workers.

In addition to the security patrols, Police Scotland and British Transport Police already have an increased presence in the area, and their extra patrols will continue over the coming weeks.

Kevin Lindsay, ASLEF's organiser in Scotland, said: "Residents in Helensburgh should be embarrassed that it’s the only station with security guards.

“It is still a possibility that staff may refuse to work trains west of Dumbarton. If there is another serious incident they will refuse to go there. It is their safety at risk.”

The warning comes after an emergency meeting in Helensburgh this week, organised by local MSP Jackie Baillie and attended by Argyll and Bute Council, West Dunbartonshire Council and police, trade union and community representatives.

Ms Baillie said: “Everyone invited to the emergency meeting was made aware of the very real risk of losing our local rail service unless staff feel reassured that robust measures are put in place to ensure safety.

“Police Scotland, the British Transport Police and social work services have adopted a robust approach with an increase in activity and I will be calling another meeting in a fortnight to monitor progress."

* For the full story, and more reaction, buy a copy of this week's Helensburgh Advertiser - on sale now.