POLICE will be keeping a closer eye on Helensburgh and Lomond over the festive season, the area’s top officer has said.

Inspector Roddy MacNeill also reported that while anti-social behaviour and vandalism had caused issues for police in the area in recent months, incidents had died down as winter set in.

He will speak to the report at a meeting of Argyll and Bute Council’s Helensburgh and Lomond area committee on Friday.

The inspector said: “The festive policing plan is complete and underway. It will involve some media messages and increased police foot and mobile patrols, mainly in the town centre area.

“Officers will be visiting business premises, including licensed premises, to ensure patrons are enjoying the festivities in a safe and appropriate manner.

“Officers will also be ensuring any Covid-19 legislation is being adhered to.

READ MORE: Crime round-up: Police appeal for witnesses after car vandalised in Helensburgh

“Friday and Saturday nights, being the most popular evenings for celebrations, will be given the appropriate resources to ensure a safe and enjoyable time for all.”

Turning to other policing issues in the Helensburgh area, Inspector MacNeill said: “Anti-social behaviour and youth disorder has been an issue in the Helensburgh area over the period of the last quarter.

“Thankfully it has not been on the scale seen in some nearby areas such as Balloch Park.

“Local officers have been carrying out targeted patrols to deter such behaviour in these areas, mainly focusing on Colquhoun Square, Hermitage Park and Duchess Woods. This has resulted in enforcement action being taken against a number of individuals.

“Vandalism and in particular graffiti continues to be a problem in Helensburgh although the number of recorded vandalisms this quarter (13) are a little under half the four-year average for the same quarter.”

The inspector also reported that Taser training was continuing to be rolled out, adding: “Officers carrying Tasers has been well received as a whole by the public and officers.”