POLICE in Clydebank have warned that patrols at a reservoir will be regular if youth disorder in the area continues.

Ten officers and five vehicles were deployed to deal with a large number of underage teenagers drinking in a public place recently.

On Friday, April 19, around 100 youths congregated at the Greenside Reservoir, off Cochno Road.

Police said not all, but the “vast-majority” had alcohol and were under the legal drinking age of 18. Officers seized and disposed of a large amount of alcohol – around 150 bottles and cans.

PC Andy Henderson said: “It’s a criminal offence to give or buy alcohol to anyone under the age of 18. Police are pro-actively addressing the issue of licensed premises supplying alcohol to anyone under age.

Read more: Clydebank cops take booze off youths at Greenside Reservoir

“At one point there was between 80 to 100 youths and the amount of litter was disgraceful. The youths started congregating mid-day, some were being dropped off by relatives and others in taxis.

“A significant percentage of available police resources was deployed which has a knock-on effect on other issues in Clydebank area.

“This caused is a financial impact, a time impact and resource impact on Police Scotland.”

At the time police instructed the youths to leave the area.

The Scottish Ambulance Service was also requested to treat a girl who was unconscious, as well as the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service as the grass was allegedly set on fire.

The officer continued: “We are here to keep people safe and under age kids in a large area beside the water while under the influence of alcohol is unsafe.

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“Further patrols were carried out to prevent the youths re appearing and if the issue continues, police will be pro-actively patrolling the area in order to deter and protect."

It was said that Cochno Road has been heavily affected by anti-social behaviour before, with property being damaged and people urinating and defecating in public places.

The issue of the youths congregating at the reservoir sparked a debate on social media with some parents agreeing with Police Scotland. But many disagreed, saying youngsters should be left to have fun.